A Vietnamese fishing vessel suspected of encroaching into Malaysian waters and carrying out illegal fishing activities has been detained, with nearly one tonne of seafood seized in the operation.
The vessel was intercepted at about 2.40am on Monday after being detected acting suspiciously around 102 nautical miles northeast of Kuantan Port.
Pahang Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) director First Admiral Maritime Mazlan Mat Rejab said enforcement officers faced resistance from the boat crew during the inspection, resulting in a brief struggle.
However, he said the situation was brought under control following quick and professional action by MMEA personnel.
Checks found that the vessel was operated by 18 Vietnamese crew members, including a skipper.
Mazlan said the boat is suspected of committing an offence under Section 15(1)(a) of the Fisheries Act 1985 for fishing activities and failing to report its arrival in Malaysian fishing waters without approval from the Director-General of Fisheries.
The vessel, along with about 1,000kg of seafood and all crew members, was escorted to the Kemaman Maritime Zone Jetty in Terengganu before being handed over to MMEA investigating officers for further action.
He said the total value of the seizure, including the vessel and catch, is estimated at more than RM6 million.
