A mangrove timber cargo boat was detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM) after it was suspected of committing several offences in the waters off Kuala Sepetang recently.
The vessel, registered as ANE 3119, was intercepted by enforcement officers from the Kuala Kurau Maritime Zone Headquarters at about 2.50pm, approximately 0.05 nautical miles west of the Kuala Sepetang estuary.
Kuala Kurau Maritime Zone director Commander Mohd Hairil Othman said initial inspections found that the boat had allegedly violated provisions under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 and the Immigration Act 1959/63.
He said the vessel was suspected of failing to display a valid boat licence and insurance policy as required under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952.
“Further checks on the crew also found possible offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63, including failure to produce valid work permits and suspected misuse of the Temporary Employment Visit Pass (PLKS),” he said.
Mohd Hairil said three Indonesian crew members, aged between 26 and 48, were on board during the inspection.
He added that all crew members and the vessel were detained before being escorted to the Kuala Kurau Maritime Zone Jetty and handed over to investigating officers for further action.
“A police report was also lodged at the Kuala Sepetang Police Station to complete the investigation process,” he said.
