Pacific nations have successfully expanded their efforts to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, covering over 30 million square kilometers of ocean through an initiative known as Operation Kurukuru. This operation, which took place from October 13 to October 31, involved the inspection of 126 vessels, resulting in one apprehension and the identification of 11 high-risk ships, underscoring the collaboration among member nations of the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA).
Noan David Pakop, the FFA Director-General, emphasized the significance of Operation Kurukuru as a pivotal step in implementing the Regional Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Strategy for 2025–2029. He stated that this operation is more than an annual event; it represents a comprehensive approach to fisheries management where policy commitments are operationalized through coordinated patrols and enhanced intelligence sharing.
The initiative showcased advancements in technology and regional cooperation, utilizing modern surveillance methods, including satellite, electromagnetic, and optical imagery. Participating nations effectively identified vessels operating without tracking signals, showcasing the efficacy of data-driven maritime enforcement mechanisms. The steady detection rate and subsequent actions indicate the success of sustained regional coordination in addressing IUU fishing.
Pakop celebrated not only the operational success but also the record involvement of women in the coordination team, with 11 female secondees active within the FFA Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre in Honiara. The operation engaged surface and aerial assets from various nations, including support from Australia, New Zealand, France, and the United States, highlighting the collaboration essential to achieving effective surveillance and enforcement.
The operation also included high seas coverage under the framework of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), further enhancing cooperative efforts to secure the region’s vital marine resources. A total of 13 daily intelligence briefs were generated, guiding national headquarters and surveillance assets effectively despite operational challenges.
The successful implementation of Operation Kurukuru signals a strong commitment from Pacific nations to sustainable fisheries management. Such collaborative efforts are essential to protect the region’s tuna resources, ensuring long-term benefits for all Pacific communities. With the groundwork laid for increased surveillance capabilities and a collective approach to maritime security, there are promising prospects for the future of sustainable fisheries in the Pacific.
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