MMEA detains tugboat, barge believed to be operating illegally in Kuala Baram waters
MIRI (May 6): A tugboat and barge believed to be operating illegally in Kuala Baram waters here were intercepted and detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Miri Maritime Zone yesterday.
MMEA Miri director Capt Mohd Khairol Anuar Saad said the two vessels were spotted in a suspicious situation at approximately 3.2 nautical miles southwest of Kuala Baram.
They were then intercepted by a patrol team during an integrated operation under Op Permai 01/2019 and Op Tiris 3.0 around 12.30pm.
The inspection found the crew members were not only transporting cargo that was not permitted, but also failed to produce any valid licensing documents.
'The tugboat was manned by eight crew members including the captain, of which four are Malaysians, two Myanmar nationals, and two Indonesians, aged between 23 and 49. All of them have been detained for further investigation,' Mohd Khairol said in a statement today.
MMEA intercepted the tugboat and barge in Kuala Baram waters. – MMEA photo
He added that such actions not only violate the law but also pose safety risks to maritime navigation in national waters.
The case is being investigated under the Customs Act 1967 and the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 for offences related to carrying unauthorised cargo and failing to present a valid Domestic Shipping Licence.
He emphasised that MMEA remains committed to intensifying patrols and enforcement to curb maritime crime and violations at sea.
Members of the public can report any suspicious maritime activities to the Malaysian Maritime Miri Zone hotline on 085-649111, Sarawak State Maritime Office on 082-432544 or 082-432016, or the national emergency line 999 for immediate action. Kuala Baram lead MMEA Miri Mohd Khairol Anuar Saad
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