LAHAD DATU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) seized a pump boat suspected to be involved in fish bombing activity off Kunak waters on Saturday.
Lahad Datu Maritime Zone Director, Maritime Commander Dzulfikhar Ali said the boat was held at about 1.15am during a patrol in the area under the Op Pluto Timur, Op Tiris and Op Khas Pagar Laut at about 1 nautical miles northeast of Kunak.
He said that a preliminary inspection found the boat was operated by two Palauh men aged between 18 and 23, who failed to produce any identification documents.
“The result of further inspection on the vessel without registration number found that the vessel was in the middle of catching fish using the bombing method, which is an offence under the Fisheries Act 1985.
“Also found were 15 kilograms of fish as well as some diving tools inside the vessel,” he said, adding that the seizures and the crews were taken to Lahad Datu Maritime jetty for further investigation and action.
Dzulfikhar in a statement on Sunday said the use of explosives or fish bombs for fishing is a serious offence as it not only violates the law but could also destroy marine habitats, including coral reefs which could affect the national fisheries resources.
He said Malaysian Maritime will continue to intensify patrols and will not compromise against any parties involved in fish bombing activities in the national waters.
The Malaysian Maritime also urges the maritime community to always comply with the laws and to channel information on any suspicious activities via WhatsApp at 016-930 5727 or the emergency line 999 for immediate action.
