A Vietnamese-flagged fishing vessel was apprehended by the Indonesian Police’s Marine Unit in the Natuna waters, following suspicions of illegal fishing activities. The boat’s crew allegedly disabled their Automatic Identification System (AIS) to evade detection
The capture of the Vietnamese vessel KG 932 TS by the Indonesian police’s KP Bisma 8001 patrol boat is a significant enforcement action against illegal fishing practices in Indonesia’s exclusive economic zone.
Intelligence reports led to the interception of KG 932 TS, which was caught engaging in illegal fishing activities in the Northern Natuna Sea.
The vessel’s captain had a homemade revolver and ammunition, intensifying the gravity of the situation.
During the pursuit, the Vietnamese crew attempted to entangle the patrol boat’s propeller with a long rope, showing resistance to the arrest.
Investigations revealed that the boat KG 932 TS had been operating in the region for a decade, causing substantial economic losses to Indonesia estimated at IDR 264 billion.
Read More: Vietnam Fishing Vessels Seized for Illegal Operations in Indonesian Waters
The captain, Nguyen Hoang Giau, faces charges under Indonesian Law Number 6 of 2023, with a maximum penalty of 8 years imprisonment.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in maritime law enforcement in Southeast Asia, stressing the importance of regional cooperation and vigilance against illegal activities in shared waters.
Indonesian authorities successfully apprehended a Vietnamese fishing vessel suspected of illegal fishing in the Natuna Sea. The seizure of KG 932 TS, equipped with a hidden revolver and engaging in deceptive practices, underscores Indonesia’s commitment to protecting its maritime resources and enforcing international law.
