SANDAKAN: A vessel suspected of illegally transporting 150,000 litres of petrol was detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) in the waters approximately 9.5 nautical miles northwest of Tanjung Bidadari here, on Wednesday.
Sandakan MMEA Director, Kapten Maritim Muhamad Suhairy Hussain, stated that the detention occurred around 5.15 pm by the MMEA vessel KM Peringgi during Op Sejahtera 1/2022, Op Pluto Timur 2/2013, Op Khas Cegah PATI (OCP) Utara COVID-19, and Op Tiris 3.0.
He explained that a suspiciously moving vessel was detected in the vicinity, prompting KM Peringgi to approach for further inspection. Investigations revealed the vessel was operated by a skipper and four crew members, comprising three Malaysians and two Filipinos, aged between 22 and 64. All individuals possessed valid identification documents.
However, further inspection uncovered that the vessel was carrying approximately 150,000 litres of petrol without written authorization, believed to violate provisions under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.
Following the discovery, the vessel was detained at the same location by 5.30 pm. It was later escorted, along with the skipper and crew, to the Sandakan MMEA jetty, arriving at 11.00 pm for handover to MMEA investigating officers for further action.
Suhairy emphasized that MMEA will continue intensifying patrols and enforcement to curb smuggling of controlled goods and other maritime offenses in national waters. He warned that strict action will be taken against any party attempting to profit from illegal activities. – James Leong
