Failed plan: Among the 25 barrels of petrol seized by the MMEA in Kudat.
KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has foiled an attempt to smuggle more than RM25,0000 worth of petrol to a neighbouring country with the arrest of an undocumented Filipino.
Kudat Maritime Zone director Maritime Commander Hasbullah Omar said the operation on Thursday was carried out near Pulau Mandi Darah following reports of frequent fuel smuggling activities in Kudat waters.“A patrol boat was dispatched to the area.
“At 4.30am, the vessel detected a boat near Telukan Paitan, prompting a pursuit.
“During the chase, two individuals escaped after jumping into the sea.
“However, a 28-year-old Filipino man was nabbed.
“A total of 25 barrels containing about 5,000 litres of petrol were seized,” he said.
Hasbullah urged the public to report any maritime crimes to the MMEA via their 24-hour hotline.
