PNG strengthens fight against illegal fishing with new surveillance patrol boats

One of the new vessels docked at the wharf (Image: Supplied)

Papua New Guinea is now the first country in the Pacific region to operate surveillance patrol boats specifically designed to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated [IUU] fishing in its waters.

The new vessels will enable the National Fisheries Authority [NFA] to better protect the fisheries sector, enforce marine laws, and safeguard the nation’s marine resources.

The patrol boats, Illakini and Vanimo, were officially commissioned in Port Moresby yesterday. Their deployment marks a major step in strengthening maritime governance and protecting PNG’s ocean resources.

NFA Managing Director Justin Ilakini said the vessels will be used as platforms for governance that will support cooperation with bilateral and multilateral partners, including the Police and Defence Force.

"The deployment of the vessels responds to growing concerns over unidentified and potentially illegal vessels operating in PNG waters, particularly in remote and border regions,” Ilakini said.

He said the boats are not only capable of targeting illegal fishing activities but can also support joint operations to address transnational crimes within PNG’s national jurisdiction.

"These vessels are critical national assets designed to protect people, secure marine resources, and ensure long-term economic benefits for future generations," Ilakini said.

MV Ilakini is one of the newly bought vessels (Image: Supplied)

Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister Jelta Wong said the commissioning of the vessels reinforces the government’s long-term vision of a safe, secure, and prosperous maritime sector.

Domestically, the government will continue a whole-of-government approach to maritime security, strengthening collaboration among the PNG Defence Force, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, Customs, the National Maritime Safety Authority, Immigration, and other relevant agencies.

"The government is committed to ensuring coastal and inland communities are meaningfully engaged and supported through policies that promote responsible fishing, sustainable livelihoods, and long-term stewardship of our oceans," Minister Wong said. "Protecting our marine ecosystems is both an economic and moral responsibility we owe to future generations."

Police Minister Peter Tsiamali Jnr said the deployment of the vessels as a strategic move to safeguard PNG’s seas, including Bougainville waters, which also benefits the wider region.

"The Marape-Rosso government is taking its responsibility seriously to protect its people and resources. Securing our waters ensures the security of resources for our citizens," he said.

The two new surveillance patrol boats are part of a four-vessel fleet planned for PNG waters, with the third vessel, Daru, expected to arrive in the first quarter of 2026.