BINTULU: A local fishing vessel was detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) during a special operation off Penipah coast for violating its licence conditions yesterday (Apr 24).
MMEA Bintulu director Captain Muhammad Suffian Eldine Abdullah said the Class C vessel was detected fishing illegally about 10.2 nautical miles from the coast around 7am during patrols under ‘Op Tiris 3.0’ and ‘Op Permai 01/2019’.
“Further inspection found the vessel was operating in a prohibited zone, less than 12 nautical miles from shore, in breach of its licence conditions.
“Six local crew members, including the skipper aged between 28 and 54, were detained for investigation.
“The vessel and crew have been escorted to the MMEA Bintulu Vessel Detention Centre (PTV) and handed over to the investigating officer for further action,” he said.
The case is being investigated under Section 8(b) of the Fisheries Act 1985, which carries a fine of up to RM20,000, a jail term of up to two years, or both upon conviction.
MMEA reiterated its commitment to strengthen maritime law enforcement and safeguarding the nation’s fishery resources from illegal activities.
Suffian reminded the fishing community to adhere to maritime regulations and prioritise safety at sea.
The public may report any suspicious activities or maritime emergencies via the 999 emergency hotline or by contacting the MMEA Bintulu Operations Centre at 086-314254 or the Sarawak Operations Centre at 082-432544.
