On 8 April 2020, the US Coast Guard sighted this vessel 70NM from the USA EEZ (32° 18.350 N 071° 27.934 W). This vessel was not transmitting AIS and stated its purpose in the area was to fish. However, the vessel’s ICCAT authorisation expired on 09 February 2016. Vessel markings showed Vanuatu as port of registry but communication with Vanuatu authorities revealed the vessel was previously registered in Vanuatu to 2016 but not currently registered there hence was presumed stateless. The US Coast Guard suggested the vessel was operating with improper markings and in the ICCAT Convention Area without appropriate authorisation. This vessel was included in the ICCAT IUU list in 2020.
OCEAN STAR NO. 2
8665193
Fishing Vessel
Longline
Unknown
96.000
23.500
2.100
200601
Chinese Taipei
Ming Shun Fishery SA, Ming Shun Fishery Co Ltd; Tuna Fishing (Vanuatu) Ltd, Tuna Fishing Vanuatu Co. Ltd
Ming Shun Fishery SA, Ming Shun Fishery Co Ltd; Tuna Fishing (Vanuatu) Ltd, Tuna Fishing Vanuatu Co. Ltd
USA: sighting of tuna longline vessel in the Convention Area; not on ICCAT Record of Vessels; No valid Flag. Communicated via radio, vessel stated purpose was fishing.
