SEMPORNA: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) foiled a fuel smuggling attempt off Tanjung Pantau Pantau, Thursday.
Two unregistered boats and 37 jerrycans containing petrol were seized during the operation, said Semporna Maritime Zone Director Maritime Commander Amir Shubli.
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The operation was carried out under Ops Pluto Timur, Ops Khas Cegah Pati, and Ops Tiris at about 5.45pm.
“Both boats which were in suspicious condition were discovered at 0.1 nautical miles north of Tanjung Pantau Pantau.
“Result of inspection found that both boats were abandoned without crews, suspected fled to avoid arrest,” he said.
According to Amir, both boats, two engines and 37 jerrycans containing petrol estimated worth RM20,000 were seized.
The seizures were taken to Semporna Maritime jetty for documentation and further investigation under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies Act 1961.
Amir also emphasised MMEA’s commitment to further strengthen security control and intensify operation to combat maritime criminal activities including smuggling in Semporna.
