Operation Island Chief Intercepts Record High Vessels Of Interest

The recently concluded Operation Island Chief (OPIC26) intercepted 16 vessels of interest, one of the highest tallies recorded in recent FFA-coordinated regional surveillance operations. The two-week operation, held from August 3 to 14, apprehended four vessels, although it remains unclear whether any were tuna boats. During the operation, 133 boats were boarded and inspected, 45 vessel contacts with high risk IUU assessments were analysed, and satellite detections were looked into. Over 3,000 tuna and other fishing boats, covering approximately 27.5 million square km of Pacific waters, were monitored closely during OPIC26.

OPIC26 was organized by FFA members including Pacific Island nations, Australia, and New Zealand, and supported by the WCPFC, SPC, Global Fishing Watch, and Hawkeye 360, among others. FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop explained that OPIC26 demonstrated the value of the Pacific Islands’ collective efforts to detect and respond to IUU fishing. “These results reflect the growing capability of our members, supported by intelligence, technology and strong partnerships, to identify activities of concern and protect our vast ocean areas.” Last year, OPIC25 identified 12 vessels of interest.