Border Force targets illegal foreign fishing in the seas off northern Australia

The Australian Border Force has launched a major crackdown on illegal foreign fishers plundering the seas off northern Australia.

Operation Lunar will coordinate additional air, sea and land-based resources to protect more than 33,000 kilometres of coastline.

The crackdown comes as figures, released exclusively to 7NEWS, reveal 156 vessels have been stopped and 83 illegal fishers prosecuted in the past six months.

ABF Commander Maritime Border Command, Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, said his team is sending a clear message to those harming our economy and environment.

“Illegal foreign fishers will not be tolerated in Australian waters,” Sonter told 7NEWS.

“Don’t even come down and try it on – we will find you and will take action against you.”

The majority of the foreign fishers caught have entered through Indonesia.

ABF crews not only have the powers to intercept vessels, seize catches and arrest those onboard, but also destroy the boats.

Marine Tactical Officer Kyle Must said most people caught react with surprise.

“No one ever thinks they’re going to get caught until they do get caught,” Must said.

“When it’s on, it’s on… you don’t know what to expect so everyone’s at the ready.”

7NEWS was granted rare access to witness the operation unfold and speak with those tasked with safeguarding our nation’s interests.

“The crew certainly take a lot of pride knowing that they’re helping out, keeping Australian borders protected,” ABF Deputy Commanding Officer Tony Brodbribb said.

The ABF previously launched Operation Leedstrum, which has run for 12 months in the Kimberley Marine Park in Western Australia.