SEMPORNA: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained two foreigners with six fish bombs following an operation off Pulau Karindingan, here, Saturday.
The duo were detained when their pump boat intercepted by the MMEA boat patrolling in the areas under the Ops Sejahtera, Ops Khas Cegah PATI, and Op Tiris 4.0 at about 9.30am.
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The boat skipper attempted to escape by speeding but successfully intercepted at 1.6 nautical miles of the east Pulau Karindingan.
“The result of inspection on the pump boat found six bottles believed to be fish bombs. Further inspection also found that the 50-year-old boat skipper and his 24-year-old crew does not have any valid identification documents,” said Semporna Maritime Zone Director, Maritime Commander Amir Shubli.
MMEA in a statement also seized a pump boat without registration number, an engine as well as an air compressor, believed use for diving.
The suspects were currently detained under the Fisheries Act 1985 and Immigration Act 1959/63. The seizures were taken to the Azumi Camp Jetty for further action.
According to Amir, MMEA will not compromise with any parties, especially foreigners found committing illegal fishing activities including using explosive that will destroy our marine ecosystem.
He said the use of explosive is not only a criminal offence but also destroys underwater marine life.
“We will further intensify control and security in the hotspot areas to curb this activities,” he said.
MMEA encouraged the members of the public to share information on maritime offences via the Semporna Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 089-782619 or the 24-hour emergency hotline, 999.
