SHIP SINKING POLICY: A LEGAL ACTION TO ERADICATE ILLEGAL FISHING IN INDONESIA

Abstract

Illegal fishing poses a significant threat to Indonesia's marine resources, and addressing this issue is crucial for the country. To combat illegal fishing, the Indonesian government has implemented several policies, one of the most controversial being the sinking of vessels found to be involved in such activities. This article examines the government's strategies against illegal fishing, particularly focusing on the policy of sinking ships as a method to eradicate illegal fishing in Indonesian waters. The research conducted is normative legal research, utilizing a statutory approach. Data were collected by reviewing relevant national and international legal documents and analyzed descriptively. The findings reveal that the government's policies to counter illegal fishing include the establishment of Task Force 115, the Indonesian Marine Policy, a Transshipment Policy, and a Ship Sinking Policy. The effectiveness of these measures largely depends on the legal discretion of the minister in office. The Ship Sinking Policy, is viewed as a decisive and concrete action, significantly more impactful than other interventions. Furthermore, the policy of sinking ships is implemented based on sufficient preliminary evidence, which is essential to minimize conflicts with other countries. This approach underscores Indonesia's commitment to enforcing its maritime laws while maintaining diplomatic relations.