BINTULU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained a Class C fishing boat and four crew members for violating their licence conditions by fishing under 12 nautical miles yesterday (Mar 26).
MMEA Bintulu director Captain Muhammad Suffian Eldine Abdullah said the boat was intercepted at 7.45 am during ‘Op Khas Pagar Laut’, ‘Op Permai’ and ‘Op Tiris’ patrols.
The vessel, operated by two locals and two Indonesians, was spotted fishing in Similajau waters, about 5.5 nautical miles northwest of Bintulu Turtle Beach.
“Further inspection found that the crew were catching fish less than 12 nautical miles from shore, as specified in the condition of their licence.
“The vessel and crew members, aged between 19 and 52, were escorted to the MMEA Bintulu Vessel Detention Centre being handed over to the investigating officer for further action,” he said.
The case is being investigated under Section 8(b) of the Fisheries Act 1985, which provides for a fine up to RM20,000 or imprisonment for a term of up to two years or both, upon conviction.
Suffian reminded the maritime community to comply with maritime laws and practise safety procedures at sea to prevent unwanted incidents.
Members of the public are urged to report complaints, information, or emergencies at sea directly to the MMEA Bintulu Operations Centre at 086-314254 or MMEA Sarawak Operations Centre at 082-432544.
