Kota Kinabalu: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) seized a fishing vessel off Mantanani Island, detaining its 65 Filipino crew members along with four tonnes of catch.
Sabah and Labuan MMEA Director Maritime First Adm Mohd Khairulanuar Abd Majid @ Razali (pic) said agency personnel were on routine patrol in the area on Sunday (Sept 27).
“They noticed the vessel around 1.30pm and approached it for an inspection,” he said.
He said the crew members did not possess any documents and had violated immigration laws, while their act of fishing in Malaysian waters without a permit was an offence under the Fisheries Act 1985.
Khairulanuar said the fishing boat, crewmen and their catch were all brought to the maritime jetty and handed over to investigating officers for further action.
He said the total value of the seizure was around RM350,000.
“The MMEA will not compromise on any form of illegal action in our waters,” he said, stressing that more patrols and enforcement will be conducted to protect the country.
He called on local fishing and coastal communities to work closely with the authorities to protect Sabah’s sea, resources and safety.
He urged anyone with knowledge of suspicious activity or maritime emergencies to contact the agency’s regional operations centre at 088-387 774 or the 999 emergency number for quick response and action.
