FSM Patrol Boats Catch Taiwanese Longlinerff

The FSM patrol boat FSS Palikir returned March 30 to its base in Pohnpei after a surveillance operation of more than nine weeks in Palau and FSM waters, marking the longest excursion of any of the country's three patrol vessels to date.

Arranged in cooperation with Palau and Australia, Operation Rai-Balang assisted with the monitoring of Palau's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). According to the FSM national police, the operation involved coverage of more than 4,000 square miles in Palau's EEZ alone and citation of several vessels for violation of Palau law. Australia provided aerial assistance for a portion of the operation.

The Palikir is one of three patrol boats donated to the FSM through the Australian Government Defense Program. Since 1979, the program has distributed 22 patrol boats among 12 Pacific island nations. Palau's one patrol boat is currently being repaired in Australia.

On its return to Pohnpei, the operation was prolonged due to the detection of a vessel in violation of FSM law. According to Palikir Capt. David Marar, examination of the longliner’s log revealed it had been fishing within 12 miles of Ngulu, an outer island of Yap, constituting a major breach. The vessel, registered to Taiwan, was escorted to Yap and handed over to authorities.

A fine for the offense could reach US$500,000.

The FSM has a trilateral agreement with Palau and RMI whereby each may seek the assistance of and enforce the maritime laws of the other. Operation Rai-Balang commenced January 22. Rai-Balang refers to stone money traded between Yap and Palau.