Foreign ships operate illegally

Foreign ships operate illegally

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Dozens of foreign ships have been
illegally catching fish and shrimp in Irian Jaya's northern
waters, Antara reported.

Director of CV Bintang Mas company Gandhi Gan, said on
Thursday fishing boats operating between the eastern coastal
subdistrict of Sarmi and upper Waropen in Yapen Waropen district
frequently encountered large foreign ships.

According to Gandhi, foreign vessels using sophisticated
equipment were able to catch fish and shrimp near the coastline.

"But, the most tragic thing is that they often cause damage to
our fishing gear, including motorized boats, nets and other
equipment."

Gandhi quoted some traditional fishermen as saying the ships
operated illegally when Indonesian naval patrol boats were
patrolling other territorial water areas, such as those in
Surabaya and Ujungpandang.

"Foreign shipping activity has been reported to the security
authorities, but they are yet to take appropriate action."

He said the illegal operation had significantly reduced the
catch and income of locals.

Gandhi's company is licensed to catch fish and shrimp in Irian
Jaya's northern waters, from Jayapura to Waropen. It operates 20
fishing boats ranging from 30 to 50 tons.

Gandhi refused to provide data on the company's catch, but
said export destinations were Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan and
Taiwan.