KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) recorded seizures amounting to over RM4.8 million during its Pagar Laut Special Operation 1/2025, conducted nationwide from March 10 to April 18.
Its director-general, Admiral Maritime Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah, said the largest seizure during the operation involved two foreign fishing vessels, valued at RM3mil.
"A total of 312 individuals categorised as Persons of Interest, including 13 foreign nationals from Myanmar, Indonesia, China, Iran, Bangladesh, Vietnam and others, were detained during the operation," he told a press conference after closing the operation here on Wednesday (April 16).
He said the highest number of offences recorded fell under the Fisheries Act 1985, with 44 cases, followed by the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 (26 cases), and the Immigration Act 1959/63 (16 cases).
Other seized items included contraband cigarettes worth RM958,000; lobster and fish fry (RM500,490); boats and engines (RM222,290); vehicles (RM70,500); controlled goods (RM17,671.50); dragon traps/stingray nets (RM37,160); and diesel/petrol (RM3,215).
Mohd Rosli said Johor recorded the highest number of arrests with 22 cases, followed by Sabah and the Federal Territories (21), and Sarawak (14 cases).
"Overall, the number of cases has decreased, reflecting the effectiveness of early preventive measures, continuous monitoring, and strong cooperation from the maritime community," he noted.
Ops Pagar Laut was carried out in four phases, starting from intelligence gathering and asset readiness, enforcement during and after Aidilfitri, and ending with a post-operation debrief.
Mohd Rosli also expressed appreciation to the 800 officers and personnel deployed in shifts throughout the operation for working tirelessly day and night. – Bernama
