SANDAKAN: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) thwarted an attempt to smuggle out 1,150 litres of subsidised petrol, here, Tuesday.
Sandakan Maritime Zone Director Maritime Captain Muhamad Suhairy Hussain said a MMEA patrol vessel spotted a suspicious boat heading towards Taganak Island in the Philippines at 6pm.
“Our officers attempted to stop the vessel for inspection using sirens and loudspeakers.
“However, upon realising they were being pursued by law enforcement, the boat altered its course towards Berhala Island before making a dash for shallow coastal waters to evade capture,” he said in a statement.
The boat, which was eventually abandoned by its occupants, was found to be registered for fishing purposes and equipped with a 40-horsepower outboard engine.
A thorough check on the vessel uncovered 46 jerry cans, believed to contain 1,150 litres of petrol, being transported without proper documentation.
Hussain estimated the total value of the seized goods, including the contraband fuel, the boat and its engine, at RM16,000.
The confiscated items have been transferred to the Maritime Zone Sandakan Jetty and placed in the custody of investigating officers.
The case is being investigated under the Supply Control Act 1961.
