KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has arrested two fishermen suspected of using explosives to catch fish off Labuan. The arrest was made in a joint operation with Sabah Parks after the MMEA spotted the men in a boat about one nautical mile south of Pulau Tiga at 10.30pm on Wednesday (Jan 17).
Labuan MMEA director Capt Izwanhadi Idros said a patrol vessel was sent to the location after a tip-off from the public. The boat was occupied by two Filipinos, aged 41 and 44, who did not have valid travel documents.
The fish believed to have been caught using explosives.
According to Capt Izwanhadi, the authorities found three bottles containing white powder, believed to be ammonium nitrate, which is typically used in fish bombing. They also found two large containers with marine life inside, and the boat and its contents were valued at about RM20,000.
The suspects and the seized items were then taken to the Labuan MMEA jetty for further investigations under Section 26(1)(c) of the Fisheries Act 1985. The suspects face a maximum RM20,000 fine and up to two years’ jail, or both, if convicted. They could face further penalties if found guilty of not having personal documents under the Immigration Act 1959/63, Capt Izwanhadi added.
The three bottles believed to contain ammonium nitrate found on the boat.
Capt Izwanhadi also emphasized the destructive nature of fish bombing, stressing that it not only unlawful but could also destroy the marine ecosystem and endanger human lives. He assured that efforts to curb such activities will be intensified and urged the public to cooperate with the authorities by providing information.
