30 March 2007
A Royal New Zealand Air Force Orion has completed a successful week of Pacific surveillance monitoring the waters between Samoa and the Cook Islands for illegal fishing vessels.
The multi-agency exercise, involving New Zealand, Australia, Samoa, Cook Islands, the Forum Fisheries Agency and the United States Coast Guard aimed to catch and deter people from illegal fishing in Pacific countries’ exclusive economic zones.
5 Squadron Acting Commanding Officer Squadron Leader Nick Olney said the aircraft’s 12 crew had completed more than 24 hours of flying time in support of the operation.
“It was a relatively quiet operation in that all of the fishing vessels which were sighted and photographed were found to be fishing legally. What we did achieve was a visible presence which will act as a deterrent to any individuals or companies who are considering breaking the rules in the future.”
Northern Patrol is run up to 10 times per year. It is one of many Pacific surveillance and search and rescue roles P3-K Orions undertake throughout the year.
ENDS
For further information please contact James Heffield, Defence Public Relations, on 04 496 0286 or 021 676 338.