Navy targets illegal fishing

PALEMBANG, South Sumatra: The commander of the Western Fleet, Vice Adm Mudjito, said that ships under his command have so far apprehended 168 domestic and foreign fishing vessels this year.

The vessels were detained for a range of offenses which included a lack of the proper permits and documentation, the violation of fishing zones, and the use of prohibited fishing gear.

The Western Fleet will intensify patrols in the waters of Western Indonesia to curb violations, he said, adding that it would not hesitate to take stern measures against those who do not respect Indonesian fisheries laws, particularly foreign fishing vessels.