MIRI: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) here detained a tugboat and arrested six crew for failing to report to port officials regarding the change of skipper on yesterday (Jan 15).
Miri MMEA director Capt (Maritime) Mohd Shafie Paing said the tugboat was detained some 3.32 nautical miles southwest of Kuala Baram around 5.40pm.
“The vessel was operated by seven foreigners aged between 23 and 38, and they had failed to submit a change of skipper notification document during inspection.
“Hence, the vessel and its crew were held and escorted to the vessel detention centre to be handed over to investigating officers for further investigation.”
Capt Mohd Shafie said the case would be investigated under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 for failing to report a change of skipper to port officials. A fine of up to RM1,000 will be imposed upon conviction.
The maritime community has been advised to call Miri MMEA at 085-434055 or Sarawak MMEA at 082-432544 regarding suspicious activities, maritime crimes or emergencies at sea.
