MIRI: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) here detained two tugboats and six crew members for failing to inform the change of skipper in writing yesterday (Nov 6).
MMEA Miri director Captain Mohd Khairol Anuar Saad said the vessels were detained at 10.30 am and 11.05 am during ‘Op Permai’ and ‘Op Tiris’ patrols.
The vessels, operated by four Indonesians, an Indian and a local, were spotted at about 3.5 nautical miles southwest off Kuala Baram.
“The crew members, aged between 22 and 59, were found to have valid identification documents.
“Further inspection revealed that the crew members had committed an offence of failing to inform the change of skipper in writing.
“The vessels and crew members were escorted to the Pulau Melayu Vessel Detention Centre for further action,” he said.
The case is being investigated under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952.
Khairol reiterated that the agency is committed to enforcing the law in the country’s water, and will not tolerate with any party that any violates the laws.
Members of the public are urged to report complaints, information, or emergencies at sea directly to the MMEA Miri Operations Centre at 085-649111 or the MMEA Sarawak Operations Centre at 082-432544.
