BINTULU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) here engaged in a sea chase with a Vietnamese fishing boat after it was spotted trespassing and fishing in national waters last Wednesday (Sept 27).
The agency eventually managed to intercept the boats and detained five crewmen including its skipper, aged between 22 and 44. They also failed to present any valid identity documents and boat licence when inspected.
MMEA Bintulu zone director Captain Mohd Khairol Anuar Saad said the boat was spotted fishing without a valid permit at about 88 nautical miles off Tanjung Kidurong around 11.30am.
“Upon realising the presence of our vessel, they immediately cut off their fishing net and fled as they refused to cooperate.
“A chase ensued and not long after, the fishing boat was intercepted and escorted to the Bintulu MMEA Vessel Detention Centre jetty for further action.
“No catches were found on the boat as it is believed to have been transferred to another foreign fishing boat,” he said.
Mohd Khairol added that the boat and fishing equipment estimated to be valued around RM1 million, were confiscated.
The case is being investigated under Section 15(1)(a) of the Fisheries Act 1985, which carries a fine up to RM6 million and RM600,000 fine for each crew member, upon conviction.
In view of this, the maritime community is urged to comply with all legal regulations before conducting any activity at sea.
They are welcome to channel any information and complaints regarding any suspicious activity or accident at sea to the MMEA Bintulu operations centre at 086-314 254 or MMEA Sarawak operations centre at 082-432544.
