MIRI: The Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) intercepted a wooden boat carrying syabu (methamphetamine) valued at RM 350,000 during a significant operation dubbed ‘Ops Permai’.
Conducted on June 30, it resulted in the seizure of 10kg of the illegal substance.
The wooden boat, measuring 16ft in length and equipped with a 15-horsepower outboard motor, was spotted approximately 0.3 nautical miles west of Pantai Luak Esplanade, Miri.
MMEA Miri patrol units were engaged in a pursuit that lasted 10 minutes as the suspect attempted to evade capture by heading towards the beach and fleeing into a nearby jungle on foot.
Maritime Captain Simon Templer Lo Tusa, the MMEA Sarawak deputy director of operations, said the origins of the drugs and the identity of the suspect remain under investigation.
“This is the biggest haul made by MMEA Miri this year,” Captain Simon said on Tuesday during a press conference at the MMEA Zone Miri office.
The seized boat and motor, valued at RM 10,000, along with the confiscated syabu, have been transported to Marina Jetty for further action.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.
The successful operation underscores MMEA’s continued commitment to combate drug trafficking in Malaysian waters, ensuring the safety and security of the region.
