Pacific nations have made noteworthy progress in safeguarding their marine resources through a regional initiative designed to tackle illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. From October 13 to October 31, 2024, Operation Kurukuru successfully inspected 126 vessels across over 30 million square kilometers of ocean, leading to the apprehension of one vessel on suspicion of violations and the identification of 11 high-risk ships.
This initiative was a collaborative effort among 17 member nations of the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop highlighted the operation as a significant milestone in advancing the Regional Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) Strategy for 2025-2029. He emphasized that Operation Kurukuru goes beyond a mere annual surveillance exercise, representing a strategic approach that incorporates coordinated patrols, intelligence sharing, and targeted enforcement to protect the region’s tuna resources.
The primary goals of this initiative centered on enhancing compliance and strengthening fisheries enforcement throughout the Pacific. Countries utilized modern surveillance technologies, including satellite integration and advanced maritime systems, to boost the detection of untracked vessels. Pakop pointed out that the operation’s sustained detection rates are a testament to the benefits of regional cooperation, stating, “We are identifying high-risk vessels earlier and directing assets more efficiently, even across vast ocean expanses.”
A notable highlight of this operation was the unprecedented participation of women in the coordination team, with 11 female secondees playing key roles at the FFA Regional Fisheries Surveillance Centre in Honiara. Operational efforts were significantly supported by surface and aerial assets from the Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and other nations, complemented by aircraft from Australia, New Zealand, France, and the United States.
The operation’s capacity to generate 13 daily intelligence briefs underscored the collaborative strength and data-sharing capabilities among member nations, which were vital for adapting patrol strategies in the face of weather challenges and varying national commitments. Pakop affirmed that ongoing monitoring, control, and surveillance will be critical for sustainable fisheries management.
In conclusion, Operation Kurukuru exemplifies the united dedication of Pacific nations to protect their marine ecosystems and ensure the sustainability of their tuna resources for future generations. This proactive approach not only aims to secure long-term food resources but also fosters economic resilience in the region. The collaborative spirit displayed throughout the operation offers hope for ongoing success in the fight against IUU fishing and the preservation of vital marine resources.