Two nabbed fish bombing and spearfishing in waters off Pulau Sepanggar

Two individuals have been apprehended on suspicion of engaging in fish bombing and spearfishing in the vicinity of Pulau Sepanggar, near Kota Kinabalu.

These two men, identified as a skipper and a fisherman, were taken into custody at approximately 7pm on Wednesday, January 10th.

Datuk Che Engku Suhaimi Che Engku Daik, the director for Sabah of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, asserted that the arrests were made subsequent to the detection of the suspects’ presence in the area by maritime officials.

Che Engku Suhaimi conveyed in a statement, “Upon inspection, our officials suspected that they were involved in fish bombing and spearfishing.”

Various items believed to be utilized in the creation of explosives, as well as a selection of fish thought to have been caught through illicit means, were confiscated.

Both suspects were transported back to the Sepanggar maritime jetty and delivered into the custody of investigating officers for further processing, according to Suhaimi.

Suhaimi issued a reminder to the public to abstain from utilizing explosives at sea due to the potential for damage to maritime ecosystems and reefs.

He emphasized, “It is equally important to recognize that the use of spear guns is prohibited, as it poses a potential threat to individuals during the process.”

Suhaimi advised members of the public to obtain the requisite licenses for any tools or equipment needed for fishing, and to seek guidance from authorities if unsure.

He further stated that maritime officials will persist in enforcing the laws enforced by the MMEA and will continue to carry out routine patrols to prevent maritime crimes.