Australian Border Authorities Intercept Fishing Vessels

Australian border authorities intercepted four illegal foreign fishing vessels off the northern coast of Western Australia near Kuri Bay as part of Operation Leedstrum. The vessels were discovered with the assistance of local residents, including Dambimangari traditional owner Adrian Lane and tour operator Peter Tucker. The boats, found hiding in mangroves, each carried about 10 men in their 20s and 30s. Increased patrols, staffing, and rapid response capabilities are part of the ongoing efforts to combat illegal fishing in the area. Concerns have been raised about overfishing and its impact on local biodiversity. The operation highlights the region's challenges with illegal fishing and asylum seeker boats.