KOTA KINABALU: Authorities detained five men suspected of fish bombing activities on Wednesday (Sept 6) at two separate locations in the waters around Pulau Mengalum. The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Sabah and Labuan director, Maritime First Admiral Che Engku Suhaimi Che Engku Daik, stated that their patrol boat discovered evidence of fish bombing on the two vessels. Both boats were found to be carrying paraphernalia and caught fish that indicated the use of the illegal fishing method.
The patrol team was on its routine round in Pulau Mengalum waters when they located the first pump boat with two crew members, approximately 16 nautical miles northeast of the island. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the two individuals failed to provide identity documents, boat license, and fishing license. Additionally, evidence found on the boat pointed to fish bombing activities. The second boat, carrying three crew members, was located around 18.8 nautical miles northeast of the island. Similar to the first boat, the crew members of the second boat could not produce necessary documents and had evidence of fish bombing on board,” said Che Engku Suhaimi Che Engku Daik in a statement.
All five suspects and the two boats were taken to the Sabah maritime jetty and handed over to the investigating officer. The case will be investigated under the Fisheries Act 1985 and Immigration Act 1959/63.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
