By J. Brock (SARTMA)
Last week SARTMA ran a story about the possible participation of the Falklands in the pursuit of the alleged Toothfish Poacher, VIARSA1. Today Acting Governor, Harriet Hall, has confirmed the participation. When asked last Thursday about the possibility, her response was that she would let SARTMA know as soon as participation in the pursuit of the Uruguayan flagged vessel was made official. Still under speculation is which of the Falklands Fisheries patrol ships are being used to help close the net around VIARSA1.
According to Australian Customs, an international contingent has surrounded the VIARSA1 and all participating vessels are in eyesight of each other, with the suspected poacher in the middle.
From South Africa and on the scene is new player, Ocean-going salvage vessel, JOHN ROSS, which left Cape Town on May 21st. SA AGULHAS is still proceeding to offer assistance.
Australian Customs also say that the operation was not publicised for operational reasons. At the moment, all involved vessels are located in an area that is 1800 nautical miles West-South-West of Cape Town.
According to Government House, the operation is still on-going, so there will be a conclusion to the chase at some time within the next 12 hours or so.
