Twelve members of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) participated in Operation Rai Balang 2025, which concluded recently with the identification of seven high-risk vessels within the vast expanse of 14 million square kilometers of the Pacific Ocean. The operation ran from March 3 to March 31, employing enhanced technology, in-depth training, and improved coordination to mitigate illegal fishing activities.
During the operation, FFA members conducted 96 inspections, made contact with 189 vessels, and processed a staggering 7,629 satellite detections. FFA Director-General Noan Pakop emphasized the operation’s effectiveness, noting that intelligence analysis played a crucial role in strategizing effective surveillance and operation planning. He credited the daily intelligence work conducted at the Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre as essential for identifying and preventing illegal fishing activities.
Pakop acknowledged the countries involved, including Australia, Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. He also highlighted the Pacific QUADs’ support and the ongoing collaboration with partners in monitoring, control, and surveillance efforts aimed at combatting illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
To conduct surveillance, FFA utilized advanced maritime tools—highlighting innovative technologies such as TUFMAN 2 for tuna fisheries data management, HawkEye 360 for radio-frequency tracking, and satellite imaging from Maxar, among others. The operation also detected instances of potential non-compliance with conservation measures in the Exclusive Economic Zones and adjacent high seas, which will lead to further enforcement actions at national and regional levels.
This proactive initiative underlines the commitment of Pacific Island nations to safeguard their marine resources, a vital aspect of their economies and food security. The efforts to enhance surveillance with modern capabilities signify a positive direction towards sustainable fisheries management in the Pacific.
Overall, the successful execution of Operation Rai Balang 2025 serves as a testament to regional cooperation, showcasing the determination of Pacific nations to tackle illegal fishing and preserve their ocean resources for future generations.
Leave a comment