LAHAD DATU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained two anchovy fishing vessels near Tabawan waters in Kunak for breaching licence terms.
Lahad Datu Maritime Zone Director, Maritime Commander Dzulfikhar Ali, said the vessels were detained separately at about 3.30pm on Monday during Ops Pluto Timur and Tiris.
The first vessel was found to be operated by three local crew aged between 21 and 33, while the other was operated by a Filipino skipper with two local crew. All the crew owned valid identification documents.
“Further inspection found that both vessels were found fishing less than 1.5 nautical miles from shore. The boats and crew were brought to the Lahad Datu Maritime jetty for further action,” he said, Tuesday.
Dzulfikhar said MMEA remained committed to ensure fishing activities were conducted according to the laws.
“Stern action taken against those violating the laws is to protect national marine sources,” he said.
For any complaints and information on criminal activities as well as emergencies, the public may contact Lahad Datu Maritime Operation Centre via WhatsApp at 016-9305727 or Mers 999.
