Chilean Navy monitors 70 foreign fishing vessels near Rapa Nui

The Chilean Navy conducted an oceanic fishing inspection operation (OFPO) near Rapa Nui to monitor foreign fishing fleets. Using a P3 Orion aircraft and support from the frigate Almirante Cochrane, authorities detected 70 vessels operating approximately 900 nautical miles from the coast and north of the island.

While the detected fleet was operating outside Chile's Exclusive Economic Zone, it was within the maritime area for which Chile holds surveillance responsibility under international treaties for marine conservation. Among the 70 vessels, 21 were identified as Chinese fishing boats. These vessels, along with the rest of the fleet, are reportedly targeting swordfish, tuna, and giant squid.