MMEA Detains Tanker Carrying 50 Tonnes of Diesel without Permit
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has detained a tanker off Kuala Melaka on suspicion of storing 50 tonnes of diesel worth RM180,000 without valid documentation. The vessel was intercepted by a patrol boat during an operation in the Straits of Malacca.
According to Mela and Negri Sembilan MMEA director Maritime Capt Salehuddin Zakaria, the team detected the tanker anchored approximately 0.5 nautical miles (0.92km) south-west of the coast on Sunday (Nov 9). Upon inspection, approximately 50 tonnes of a substance believed to be diesel were found in its tanks.
Capt Salehuddin said that the tanker crew failed to produce any purchase invoices or documents verifying ownership of the fuel. The vessel originated from Batam, Indonesia, and is believed to have taken on the diesel in Melaka waters to be transported out of the country without authorisation or documentation.
Crew Suspected of Offences
The vessel was operated by five Indonesian crew members aged 20 to 46, who are suspected of offences under the Petroleum (Safety Measures) Act 1984 and the Control of Supplies Act 1961. Capt Salehuddin added that MMEA will continue surveillance and enforcement operations in national waters to curb fuel misappropriation and smuggling that threaten both economic stability and maritime security.
The detention of the tanker is a significant development in the ongoing efforts to combat fuel smuggling and misappropriation in Malaysian waters. The MMEA has been conducting regular patrols and inspections to prevent such illegal activities, which can have serious consequences for the country’s economy and national security.
Enforcement Efforts Continue
MMEA will continue its surveillance and enforcement operations in national waters to curb fuel misappropriation and smuggling. The agency is committed to ensuring that all vessels operating in Malaysian waters comply with relevant laws and regulations, and that any illegal activities are detected and prevented.
The detention of the tanker is a reminder of the importance of effective maritime law enforcement and the need for continued vigilance to prevent fuel smuggling and misappropriation.
Original Article: MMEA detains tanker carrying 50 tonnes of diesel without a permit — Com