Local fishing vessel detained by MMEA for failure to report skipper change

LAHAD DATU: A Local fishing vessel was detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) in Lahad Datu waters during a routine patrol on Thursday for failing to report a change of skipper.
The vessel was stopped near Kampung Bakapit waters during Ops Pluto Timur 2/2013 and Ops Tiris 3.0. Inspections revealed the green-and-white light vessel had violated regulations mandating official notification of any skipper replacement.
MMEA Lahad Datu Zone Director, Komander Maritim Dzulfikhar Ali, stressed that such non-compliance compromises navigational safety and undermines oversight of local fishing activities.
“All skipper changes must be reported to ensure licenses and qualifications of vessel operators remain valid and recognized,” he stated.
The vessel was escorted to Lahad Datu Fisheries Jetty for further investigation by MMEA, with the seizure valued at approximately RM300,000. The case falls under the Sabah Ports and Jetties Enactment 2002 and the 2008 Sabah Small Boat Offenses related to skipper change violations.
Meanwhile, the district police in Sandakan have officially announced the closure of the Search and Rescue (SAR) operation for a 30-year-old Filipino reported missing at Ladang Sepagaya River on May 1.
The seven-day operation, led by the Sandakan District Police Headquarters (IPD Sandakan), involved several other agencies including the Marine Police, K9 units, the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), and local volunteers.
Teams combed both land and river areas within an eight-kilometer radius of the victim’s last known location.
Authorities decided to terminate the operation after evaluating safety risks, adverse weather conditions, and the exhaustive search results.
In a statement on Thursday, OCPD ACP Ahsmon Bajah said the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) extended condolences to the victim’s family and expressed gratitude to all agencies and volunteers involved. Investigations will resume should new evidence emerge.
The public is urged to refrain from disseminating unverified information regarding the case. Further updates will be provided through official channels. – James Leong