A total of 113 boxes containing lobster seeds, valued at approximately RM2.6 million, were seized by authorities in an early morning operation near Tanjung Belungkor Jetty, believed to be part of a smuggling attempt to a neighbouring country.
Tanjung Sedili Maritime Zone acting director Commander Maritime Mohd Najib Sam said the seizure was carried out at about 6.46am following intelligence gathering by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) through its Tanjung Sedili Maritime Zone headquarters.
He said the operation was launched after maritime patrol units detected a suspicious fibre-glass boat in the area, prompting immediate inspection.
“Upon inspection, the boat was found carrying 113 polystyrene boxes containing lobster seeds believed to be intended for smuggling into Singapore,” he said in a statement.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the lobster seeds were believed to have been brought in from Indonesia, with Malaysia used as a transit point before being moved to the neighbouring country.
Authorities also confirmed that the total value of the seizure, including the boat and a 150-horsepower outboard engine, is estimated at RM2.68 million.
The case is being investigated under Section 40(1) of the Fisheries Act 1985 for the illegal import or export of live fish without a valid permit issued by the Department of Fisheries Malaysia.
