June 4, 2014 - Comox, British Columbia
Members of the Canadian Armed Forces and Fisheries and Oceans protection officers concluded a successful two-week sweep over the North Pacific Ocean as part of Operation Driftnet, which resulted in the seizure of a vessel alleged to have violated international fisheries regulations.
The Chinese-registered vessel is alleged to have been using an illegal driftnet. Between 900 to1200 lbs of salmon, which is a banned fishery in that area, was also found on board. The vessel is suspected of committing serious international and domestic fisheries violations.
The apprehension was the result of a successful, combined international effort, including the Canadian-led 2014 Operation High Seas Driftnet, which monitors the North Pacific Ocean for evidence of high seas driftnets and other illegal fishing activity using ongoing aerial and at-sea patrols, as well as sophisticated satellite imaging technology including Canada’s Radarsat-2.
The vessel was seized by Chinese authorities, who were part of the effort to capture the vessel, and a full investigation will be conducted when the vessel arrives in China to determine specific charges.
The mission greatly benefits from close strategic partnerships between Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Department of National Defence/Canadian Armed Forces, the United States Coast Guard and the Government of Japan. This year’s operation included support from Representatives of China’s Fisheries Law Enforcement Command. The participation by Chinese fisheries enforcement personnel in this situation speaks to the firm commitment that all North Pacific fishing nations have to address Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing on the high seas. Canada would like to express its appreciation to Chinese authorities for that quick action.
Canada continues to play a leadership role in supporting sustainable global fisheries, including working to eradicate illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing activity in the North Pacific Ocean.
Sophie Doucet
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
613-992-3474
Frank Stanek
Media Relations
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
613-990-7537
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