KOROR, Palau (July 31, 2001 – Radio Australia)---Palau officials have released an Indonesian vessel after its owner paid a fine of $25,000 for illegal fishing.

The fishing vessel Dedy 8 was apprehended in June, southwest of Helen's Island.

The Attorney General's Office said the ship's owner agreed to pay the fine and to repatriate at least 19 fishermen.

Although the crew pleaded guilty, they claimed they were using an Indonesian map that incorrectly identifies the area.

Under the United Nations Laws of the Sea Convention, countries can claim an exclusive fishing zone up to 200 miles from land.

Since Helen's Island and the nearest Indonesian island are less than 200 miles apart, the U.N. Convention mandates a boundary that is typically negotiated at the halfway mark.

Palau has collected more than $110,000 in fines this year from illegal fishing operations.

The Attorney General's office said it hopes to use the money to increase patrols and thereby reduce illegal fishing activities.

http://pidp.ewc.hawaii.edu/pireport/2001/August/08-01-16.htm