KKP operation in North Natuna saves Rp22.6 billion in marine resources and deters cross-border poaching.

Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has captured another illegal Vietnamese fishing vessel in the North Natuna Sea, reinforcing the nation’s firm stance against cross-border maritime poaching. The interception adds to a string of successful operations this year as Indonesia intensifies patrols to protect its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and local fishermen’s livelihoods.

Vietnamese Vessel Caught Red-Handed

The HP 9213 TS, a 70-GT fishing boat flying the Vietnamese flag, was seized by KKP’s Barakuda 01 patrol vessel on November 1, 2025, in Indonesia’s EEZ waters off North Natuna. The vessel was caught using destructive trawl nets and carrying loads of dried squid. Onboard were three Vietnamese nationals, including the captain.

According to Pung Nugroho Saksono, Director General of Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance (PSDKP), the operation was led by Captain Aldi Firmansyah following real-time tracking by the KKP command center and aerial reconnaissance. “This capture proves that the state stands watch 24 hours at sea to protect our marine resources and the welfare of Indonesian fishers,” Pung declared during an inspection in Batam on November 6.

Massive Economic Loss Prevented

Authorities estimate that the interception prevented Rp22.6 billion (around SGD 1.8 million) in potential national losses. The seized vessel will face prosecution under Law No. 31/2004 on Fisheries, as amended by Law No. 6/2023 on Job Creation, with further handling by the PSDKP Batam investigators.

Another Vietnamese boat reportedly escaped pursuit after transferring an estimated 80 tons of fish to a mother ship before fleeing toward international waters — highlighting the complexity of illegal fishing networks operating in border zones.

A Wider Pattern of Illegal Activity

The North Natuna Sea has long been a hotspot for illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, due to its rich fish stocks and proximity to neighboring countries. So far in 2025, the KKP has detained 41 illegal fishing vessels, comprising six foreign boats—five Vietnamese and one Malaysian—and 35 domestic vessels violating permit regulations.

Pung revealed that KKP’s air patrols remain on standby in Batam to conduct continuous surveillance. “If we don’t stop these violations, the losses will multiply. This is about preserving our marine sovereignty,” he warned.

Sustainable Enforcement Policy

Rather than destroying captured vessels, the KKP plans to repurpose them for educational and community use. “We will donate the confiscated boats to fishermen’s cooperatives, Islamic boarding schools, or universities that can use them for training and research,” Pung explained.

This approach aligns with Indonesia’s commitment to sustainability—transforming enforcement into empowerment by turning seized assets into resources for local benefit.

Minister Trenggono: 24-Hour Sea Protection

Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Sakti Wahyu Trenggono emphasized that tight maritime surveillance is vital for maintaining national fisheries potential and protecting local fishers from foreign exploitation. “Continuous sea patrols are our front line of defense for sovereignty and sustainability,” he said.

The latest capture in North Natuna underscores Indonesia’s vigilance in safeguarding its marine sovereignty and curbing illegal fishing that threatens both ecosystems and coastal economies. For Indonesia and its neighbors like Singapore, this highlights the importance of joint maritime vigilance in preserving the shared South China Sea ecosystem and regional food security.

Sources: Gokepri (2025) , Ulasan.co (2025)

Keywords: Natuna Sea, Vietnamese Fishing Boat, KKP Operation, Illegal Fishing Indonesia, Marine Patrol, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono