Buenos Aires, Argentina – In a landmark move, Argentina has successfully levied a substantial fine and recovered operational costs from a foreign fishing vessel caught illegally trawling within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This operation, a testament to the efficacy of advanced technology and interagency collaboration, marks a new era in the fight against illegal fishing.

The Argentine Naval Prefecture, utilizing its state-of-the-art Coast Guard System, detected the Vanuatu-flagged vessel XINRUN 579 on January 5th. The system, which provides real-time monitoring of vessel movements, identified the ship's course and speed as being consistent with fishing activities within the Argentine EEZ.

Following the detection, the coast guard vessel GC-25 "Azopardo" was dispatched to intercept the XINRUN 579. The vessel's captain was notified of the violation of Argentina’s Federal Fisheries Regime (Law No. 24.922), leading to administrative proceedings and a significant fine imposed by the Undersecretariat of Aquatic Resources and Fisheries.

In addition to the fine, the vessel's operators were required to cover all operational costs associated with the apprehension, including the deployment of the coast guard vessel and the use of electronic surveillance technology.

This case represents a significant milestone, as it is the first time Argentina has successfully issued an international electronic fine and conducted a summary judgment in absentia against a foreign vessel for illegal fishing. The operation underscores the effectiveness of the Coast Guard System, a regionally leading technology developed by the Argentine Naval Prefecture.

The successful collaboration between the Naval Prefecture and the Undersecretariat of Fisheries demonstrates Argentina's commitment to protecting its marine resources and sends a clear message to those engaged in illegal fishing activities.