Operation Kurukuru Identifies High-Risk Vessels In WCPO

The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) recently concluded its annual regional fisheries surveillance, ‘Operation Kurukuru,’ held in the tuna-rich WCPO to crack down on IUU fishing. The two-week operation, held from October 5 to 16, recorded over 27,000 satellite detections, which refers to identifying of potential vessels or other maritime targets picked up by satellite-based surveillance systems, 149 vessel sightings, and 82 at-sea and dockside boardings and inspections. Officials identified 13 vessels of interest, leading to one apprehension. It was not disclosed whether any of the vessels were tuna boats.

Maritime surveillance and intelligence technologies, such as Hawkeye 360, Starboard, BlackSky, Skylight and Copernicus, were used for the Operation that brought together fisheries, maritime, law enforcement and defence personnel from FFA’s 17 Members. Australia, France, New Zealand and the US provided operational support, according to an FFA statement. Noan David Pakop, FFA Director-General, said the operation demonstrated the importance of Pacific countries working collectively to protect the fisheries resources that support livelihoods, food security and national economies.