SANDAKAN: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Maritime Malaysia) detained a local fishing vessel on Tuesday afternoon for suspected multiple offenses in Sandakan waters.
Sandakan Maritime Zone Director Muhamad Suhairy Hussain said that a patrol boat intercepted the vessel at 1.05pm, 0.8 nautical miles southeast of Kampung Karamunting’s public jetty.
“The vessel, operating under a fishing license, was crewed by three foreign nationals aged 29 to 57, all possessing valid identification,” Muhamad Suhairy said.
“Our inspection revealed 5,000 litres of diesel stored in a modified tank without proper permits. Additionally, the skipper’s name on board didn’t match the license records.
“The total seizure, including controlled goods and the vessel, is valued at over RM90,000,” he said.
The vessel, crew and seized items were transferred to the Sandakan Maritime Zone Jetty for further investigation.
Authorities are investigating potential violations under the Sabah Ports and Harbours Enactment 2002, citing discrepancies in the skipper’s identity and unauthorized vessel modifications.
The case is also being examined under Section 21 of the Supply Control Act 1961 for unauthorized fuel transportation.
