Attempted Illegal Operations Foiled: Tugboat and Barge Seized in Banan Waters

(Miri, 6th) A tugboat and its accompanying barge attempting illegal operations in the waters off Kuala Banan were intercepted by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency's Miri Maritime Enforcement Zone. 

Miri Maritime Enforcement Zone Chief, Maritime Captain Khairul Anwar, stated that at around 12:30 PM yesterday, law enforcement personnel discovered these two vessels exhibiting suspicious behavior approximately 3.2 nautical miles southwest of Kuala Banan during the joint operations “Op PERMAI 01/2019” and “Op TIRIS 3.0” and immediately launched an interception and inspection. 

He noted that the inspection revealed the tugboat and barge were carrying unauthorized cargo and could not produce any valid local shipping licenses. 

“There were a total of 8 crew members onboard, including the captain, among whom were 4 locals, 2 Myanmar nationals, and 2 Indonesians, aged between 23 and 49. They have been detained to assist with further investigations.” 

Khairul Anwar emphasized that such actions are not only illegal but may also endanger the safety of navigation in our maritime areas. 

The case is currently being investigated under the Customs Act of 1967 and Merchant Shipping Ordinance of 1952, with charges including illegal transport of goods and failure to present domestic shipping licenses. 

He added that the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency will continue to intensify maritime patrols and enforcement to prevent illegal activities at sea and safeguard national maritime security. 

Members of the public who observe any suspicious activities at sea are encouraged to contact the Miri Maritime Enforcement Zone hotline at 085-649111, Sarawak Maritime Enforcement Unit at 082-432544 / 082-432016, or dial the emergency hotline 999 for immediate enforcement actions.