Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Directorate General of Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance (PSDKP) detained two Vietnamese fishing vessels in the North Natuna Sea, Riau Islands Province, based on local fishermen's reports of illegal trawl fishing. 

The vessels, BV 4417 TS (100 GT) and BV 1182 TS (66 GT), were intercepted by the ORCA 02 Patrol Vessel, according to Acting Director General of PSDKP Pung Nugroho Saksono on Monday (5/5/2024).

After questioning, it was found that the Vietnamese captains lacked valid fishing licenses, he said as reported by antaranews.com.

The vessels, along with their 20 crew members, were escorted to the PSDKP Batam base. 

Further inspections found 15 tons of fish aboard, highlighting the ecological damage caused by trawl gear. 

Both Vietnamese captains face charges under maritime laws, with a maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment and a Rp2 billion fine.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)