MIRI: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) in Miri has detained a Class C local fishing vessel for allegedly violating the Fisheries Act 1985 by breaching the conditions of its licence.

Miri Maritime Zone director Captain Mohd Khairol Anuar Saad confirmed the vessel was detained by the Malaysian Maritime patrol ship during routine patrols under operations ‘Permai, Naga Timur, and Tiris 3.0, lat 8.5 nautical miles west of Tanjung Lobang, here yesterday (July 4).

During the inspection, it was discovered that the vessel was operated by three local crew members aged between 25 and 55 years, using unlicensed fishing equipment.

The vessel and its crew were escorted to the Vessel Detention Centre (PTV) at the Miri Maritime Zone for further action.

Khairol said the MMEA remains steadfast in enforcing maritime laws within Malaysia’s maritime zones and will not tolerate any violations by individuals or groups.

The public is encouraged to lodge any complaints or emergency incidents at sea by contacting the MERS 999 hotline or the Miri Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 085-418204/Sarawak State Maritime Operations Centre at 082-432544/082-432016 for immediate response.