Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley of the British Virgin Islands has addressed concerns about potential illegal fishing by Chinese vessels near Anegada, noting that he received no confirmed reports of such activities.
The issue of fishing nets from Chinese vessels found on local shores arose when Territorial At-Large Representative Stacey ‘Buddha’ Mather questioned the Premier during a recent House of Assembly session.
Premier Wheatley clarified that the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has not detected any unauthorised Chinese fishing operations in the territory. He also indicated that no boat seizures or crew detentions related to illegal fishing activities happened since his government came into power.
While denying knowledge of illegal activity by Chinese fishers specifically, the Premier acknowledged the potential for illegal fishing activities in the Virgin Islands’ waters. He offered reassurance by highlighting measures the government has taken to enhance border security.
Dr Wheatley explained that, as a proactive measure, the government set up the Joint Task Force (JTF) in March 2020. The JTF includes the Department of Immigration, His Majesty’s Customs, and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force. Its purpose is aimed at tightening border security.
The Premier also mentioned plans for new legislation that would bolster surveillance of the BVI’s exclusive economic zone, potentially through satellite technology.
Meanwhile, Mather urged further discussion regarding the foreign objects appearing on BVI shores, particularly those bearing Chinese markings.