KUDAT: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained two Vietnamese fishing vessels for illegally fishing northwest of Straggler Island.
A total of 11 crew members, aged 17 to 48, including the skipper, were arrested for failing to produce valid documents.
The seizure, which included vessels, fishing gear and catch, was valued at RM6 million.
“MMEA will not compromise with foreign fishermen trespassing our waters, as it threatens national fishery resources and harms local communities,” said Kudat Maritime Zone director Maritime Commander Hasbullah Omar.
Both vessels were escorted to Kudat Maritime jetty after a 12-hour journey for further investigation.
