KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) arrested four suspected fish bombers in the waters off Lahad Datu district on Sunday (June 9) evening.
Two boat engines and two bottles believed to contain explosive materials were also seized, said MMEA Lahad Datu zone commander Dr Suzanna Razali.
She said in the 6pm incident, the suspects were in two pump boats and were believed to be carrying out illegal fish bombing activities near Kun Kun Island.
“We received complaints about the incident at around 6.16pm and 6.31pm the same day,” she said in a statement, adding that a team was sent to investigate.
During the investigation, it was found that the boats were involved in illegal fishing activities, including using detonators and poison, among other things, said Suzanna.
“The four suspects are believed to be undocumented Palau men aged between 20 and 40,” she said, adding that they did not possess any fishing licence and the boats were unregistered.
All confiscated items worth around RM5,000 were taken back to the maritime base for further investigations, she said.
Suzanna urged the Lahad Datu maritime community to abide by regulations and to work with the authorities to prevent crime at sea.
She said those with information about suspicious activities can inform maritime officials at 089-885727 (Lahad Datu operations centre) or MERS999.
