TAWAU: Two attempts to smuggle more than seven tonnes of controlled goods using cargo boats from here were foiled in two separate operations on Tuesday.
The operations were carried out by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Tawau Maritime Zone, with total seizures estimated at nearly RM126,000.
Tawau Maritime Zone Director Shahrizan Raman said two local skippers aged 32 and 35 were also detained after failing to show the permits.
“The first case involved a local cargo boat detained 1.7 nautical miles from the south of Batu 3, Jalan Apas, while the second involved a boat detained at 1.6 nautical miles from the south of Kuala Sungai Tawau.
“The first seizure involved 415 packs of rice, 80 cartons of sugar, 19 boxes of wheat flour and seven boxes of cooking oil, while the second involved 50 cooking gas cylinders and 65 packs of rice,” he said.
Investigations into both cases are being conducted under the Supply Control Act 1961 and the Paddy and Rice Control Act 1994.
Shahrizan said the skipper in the second case, whose name was found not listed in the operating licence of the boat involved, is also being investigated under the Sabah Ports and Harbour Enactment 2002.
“All seized items, including the boats and outboard engines in both cases, have been brought to the Tawau Maritime Zone Jetty for investigation and further action,” he said.
He said the success of both cases was achieved through continuous intelligence and intensified enforcement operations, especially during the festive season.
Shahrizan said control and enforcement operations will continue to be enhanced to curb smuggling activities in the waters of the Eastern Sabah Security Zone.
“If you have information on maritime crimes, channel it to the Tawau Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 089-752116 or 999 for immediate action,” he said.
