LAHAD DATU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained an anchovy fishing vessel near Kunak waters on Monday for operating with an expired licence.
Lahad Datu Maritime Zone Director, Maritime Commander Dzulfikhar Ali, said the vessel was intercepted at about 4.45pm, 2.6 nautical miles east of Pangkalan Kunak, during Op Pluto Timur and Op Tiris.
Advertisement
Inspection revealed the vessel was operated by a 37-year-old Filipino with two crew members aged 27 and 34, all holding valid identification documents.
However, the vessel’s licence had expired, violating the law and potentially affecting national fisheries management.
The boat, crew, and catch were brought to Lahad Datu Fishery Jetty for further action. Dzulfikhar stressed that MMEA will continue strict patrols and enforcement against violations.
The public is urged to report any suspicious activity to the Lahad Datu Maritime Operation Centre via WhatsApp at 016-9305727 or call 999.
