KOTA KINABALU: A total of 65 crew members and captain of a Filipino fishing vessel were successfully detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) after carrying out illegal fishing activities in the country’s waters last Sunday.
During the operation at approximately 1.30pm, the ship, which was unloading four tonnes of seafood, was detained 18 nautical miles west of Mantanani Island, Kota Belud.
Director of Maritime Affairs of Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan, First Admiral Mohd Khairulanuar Abd Majid @ Razali said the ship in question was detected while MMEA assets were conducting routine patrols.
He said that initial inspections found that all the ship’s crew were unloading approximately four tonnes of seafood onto the fishing vessel.
“Further investigation found that all the crew and captain of the ship were suspected of committing offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63 for failing to present valid identification documents or work permits.
“In addition, they are also suspected of committing an offence under the Fisheries Act 1985 for catching fish without the permission of the Director General of Fisheries,” he said in a media statement yesterday.
According to him, the ship, along with the captain, crew and seafood, were immediately detained and taken to the MMEA Jetty before being handed over to the Investigating Officer for further action.
“The total value of the loot, including ship and marine products, is estimated to be RM350,000,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mohd Khairulanuar stressed that the MMEA will not compromise on any foreign fishing vessels that encroach on national waters or carry out fishing activities without permission.
He said enforcement actions would continue to be enhanced in line with legal provisions to ensure that the sovereignty of the waters, the interests of fishery resources and the country’s maritime security were always preserved.
“The public, especially the fishing community, who have information regarding suspicious activities or emergencies at sea can contact the Sabah State and Labuan Federal Territory Maritime Headquarters Operations Centre for immediate action.
“Any information can be channeled by calling 088-387 774 or the emergency line 999,” he said. – Fardy Bungga
The seized ship carrying 65 foreign crew members and four tonnes of seafood.
