Thirty Vietnamese men convicted of fishing illegally in Australian waters have been handed suspended jail sentences by a Darwin court and had their boats destroyed.

The crew were from two boats caught illegally fishing in a Coral Sea marine reserve off Australia’s north coast on June 2, with diving gear and six tonnes of sea cucumber – a delicacy in China and other parts of Asia.

On Tuesday, the men all pleaded guilty in court to breaking Australian fisheries and environmental laws.

Their sentences ranged from two months for the crew to five and seven months for the ships’ masters.

They were also issued with good behaviour bonds ranging from two to three years, with up to $2,000 to pay if they are breached.

The Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) said the sentences sent a strong message.

“Illegal fishing threatens the economic viability and sustainability of Australia’s well managed marine resources,” said AFMA official Peter Venslovas, cited by the BBC.

“The convictions and destruction of the vessels are a good result and will send a very strong message to all those considering illegally fishing in Australian waters.”

Australia has seen a sharp drop in illegal fishing since increasing maritime surveillance in recent years.

– with BBC