The owners of 18 boats in Fiji have been handed penalty notices for illegal fishing while another two have pending cases for the non-payment of fines.
A fishing trawler sits in Suva Harbour, Fiji. Photo: RNZ / Jamie Tahana
Fisheries Minister Semi Koroilavesau told FBC Radio with illegal fishing becoming a major concern, the ministry is warning boat owners to abide by the law.
Mr Koroilavesau says the ministry has collected more than $US24,000 in spot fines from illegal fishing.
He says the emphasis has been on coastal and inshore fisheries where they have identified fishermen conducting illegal activities.
"If they continue to contravene the conditions in their fishing licence, they will continue to be prosecuted. They understand what is required of them," he said.
Fiji government whip Semi Koroilavesau Photo: RNZI / Sally Round