Malaysia: MMEA arrests oil tanker for alleged illegal anchoring at East Johor waters

Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) on Wednesday (22 September) said it has arrested an oil tanker for allegedly anchoring without permission and failing to inform authorities upon arrival.

Johor State Maritime Director, First Admiral Nurul Hizam bin Zakaria, said the Saint Kitts and Nevis registered oil tanker was spotted at 26 eastern nautical miles of Tanjung Sedili Kechil, Johor at around 3:36 pm on Tuesday.

Initial inspection found the vessel to be operated by seven crew consisting of Burmese and Indonesians aged between 22 years to 59 years of age.

According to MMEA, the Captain failed to present supporting documents for anchoring within the country’s waters.

If found guilty under Section 491B (1)(l) of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952, individuals may be fined not exceeding RM 100,000 or face an imprisonment term of not more than two years, or both.

MMEA noted illegal activities have decreased following enforcement operations to curb illegal anchoring, and said it will continue to implement rules and regulations to ensure the safety and security of the country’s waters.

A series of earlier MMEA detentions in 2021 have been reported by bunkering publication Manifold Times (below):

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Photo credit: MMEA
Published: 23 September, 2021