High-resolution satellite image of a suspected dark vessel near Panama's protected waters, as viewed in Skylight. The image, provided by Maxar Technologies, was automatically cued after a vessel entered the zone without AIS.

Illegal fishing is one of the greatest challenges facing the world’s oceans today. However, thanks to collaborative efforts and innovative technology, strides are being made in the fight against it. A recent groundbreaking operation in Panama demonstrates the power of partnerships and intelligence-sharing in protecting marine ecosystems.

Historic seizure in Panama's Marine Protected Area

On January 20, Panamanian authorities made history by seizing six longliner fishing vessels caught operating illegally within the Cordillera de Coiba Marine Protected Area (MPA). This large-scale arrest, the biggest in the nation’s history of MPA enforcement, was no small feat and serves as a significant milestone in ocean conservation efforts. Authorities also launched investigations into ten additional vessels suspected of illegal activity in the area.

The Cordillera de Coiba, a rich biodiversity hotspot spanning 67,742 square kilometers (26,155 square miles), is home to critically endangered species such as sharks, whales, and sea turtles. It is part of the larger Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor (CMAR), a network of MPAs linking protected waters in four countries — safeguarding some of the most ecologically valuable marine environments in the world.

Technology and collaboration as a formula for success

The success of the operation was driven by collaboration between Panamanian state agencies and global experts in fisheries monitoring. The National Aeronaval Service (SENAN), the Aquatic Resources Authority of Panama (ARAP), and the Ministry of Environment spearheaded the mission but received critical support from the Joint Analytical Cell (JAC).

Formed in 2022, the JAC is a collective of nonprofits dedicated to strengthening fisheries enforcement capabilities, particularly in under-resourced countries. Comprising five member organizations - C4ADS, Global Fishing Watch, IMCS Network, Skylight and Trygg Mat Tracking (TMT) - the JAC’s collaborative model is making positive change in how NGOs support authorities in the fight against IUU fishing.

One key tool deployed during the operation was Skylight, an AI-powered fisheries intelligence platform. On January 17, Skylight utilized its tip and cue technology to task high resolution satellite imagery automatically based on vessel presence alerts in the area. The Vantor (formerly Maxar) satellites captured detailed images revealing 16 vessels active in the protected waters of the Cordillera de Coiba, including some that were operating “dark”, with no tracking on AIS or VMS.

The data provided by Skylight, combined with aerial surveillance by local authorities, gave clear indications of illegal activity. These insights enabled law enforcement to locate and board six vessels still present in the area. They were subsequently seized and brought to port for further investigation.

The JAC also issued fisheries intelligence reports, developed through the Technical Help Desk (Mesa de Apoyo) as part of a project focused on strengthening monitoring control and surveillence in the CMAR. The documents analyzed the behavior of the vessels operating in the area, helping to provide additional evidence to the authorities and strengthen collaboration in the joint management of the MPA.

A lesson in effective enforcement

Panama’s enforcement actions send a strong message to illegal fishers who may have previously ignored warnings due to a lack of follow-through. By making these historic seizures, authorities have demonstrated their commitment to protecting their marine ecosystems and enforcing international regulations.

“This is working,” said Jordan Steward, Skylight’s communications manager. Steward described the JAC as a kind of NGO-driven “Interpol” for fisheries enforcement and called the recent seizures a clear example of how collaborative and technology-based efforts can yield tangible results.

Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing poses a severe threat to marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of those dependent on the ocean. Beyond environmental harm, it undermines legal fisheries, destabilizes economies, and often involves criminal networks. Addressing IUU fishing is vital for global sustainability, and Panama’s operation offers inspiration for other nations facing similar challenges.

The Cordillera de Coiba's management plan, finalized recently in 2022, underscores the urgent need for strict enforcement to safeguard this critical marine habitat. By targeting species such as yellowfin tuna, the offending vessels were not only violating regulations but directly threatening ecological balance.

Setting an example for other countries

The operation in Panama demonstrates that success in combating illegal fishing lies in the intersection of cutting-edge technology, robust collaboration, and local enforcement. The JAC’s role in integrating AI-powered platforms like Skylight with on-the-ground efforts proves that no matter how vast the ocean, illegal activity can be identified and acted upon.

The JAC remains committed to supporting nations like Panama as they work to protect their waters from illegal fishing. Combating IUU fishing is a collective effort, and this operation is a testament to what can be achieved when we unite behind a common goal.

With proactive initiatives like these, Panama is setting an example for other countries while securing the future of its marine ecosystems. Continued collaboration and innovation will be key, ensuring that no vessel operating illegally escapes the watchful gaze of those working to protect the planet’s oceans.

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