KOTA KINABALU: A licensed and registered boat operated by a local man and carrying only small amounts of "cargo" failed to disguise a smuggling operation in waters off Tawau.
What appeared to be a legitimate mode of transport was exposed when Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency officials uncovered the activity early Tuesday.
The cargo vessel was from the Tawau mainland area and was headed towards Sebatik Island when it was intercepted by enforcement officials near Sungai Aji Kuning.
“Inspections on the boat led to the discovery of 40 petrol containers totalling 1,200 litres and three gas cylinders,” said Tawau MMEA zone director Cpt Maritime Ariffin Ghazali.
He said while other documents including the boat registration were valid, the items carried were suspected to be intended for smuggling.
He said the boat, engine and all the items on board were seized and taken back to the Tawau Maritime Jetty for further investigations while the 27-year old local boatman was also detained to facilitate investigation.
“We believe the modus operandi used to ferry fuel and other contraband in smaller quantities but in numerous trips back and forth, is a tactic used to prevent detection and deceive enforcers,” said Ariffin.
He said the overall seizure was worth around RM46,000, including petrol and gas cylinders valued at about RM3,000.
Those with information of any suspicious activity are urged to contact the Tawau Maritime Operations Centre at 089-750116 or the 999 emergency number for immediate actions.
