Labuan: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Labuan successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle 540 cartons of contraband alcoholic beverages, valued at nearly RM200,000, from the waters surrounding the duty-free island. This operation took place last night and was part of the agency's ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities in the region.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Labuan MMEA director Izwanhadi Idros reported that the seizure occurred during a routine patrol under Operation Sejahtera 1/2022 and Operation Tiris 3.0. The agency's patrol boat, PETIR 90, identified three suspicious vessels around 8.15 pm, about 0.4 nautical miles southeast of Pulau Papan.

Izwanhadi explained that when the patrol team approached for inspection, the boats attempted to evade capture, initiating a pursuit. Two of the boats reversed course towards the PETRONAS Methanol area, while the third boat ran aground at Pulau Balangkasan. The suspect aboard is believed to have jumped overboard and escaped to the island.

The enforcement team secured the abandoned vessel, which was loaded with cartons of contraband alcoholic beverages from various brands. Despite a thorough search of the surrounding area, no suspects were apprehended.

The seized boat and its cargo have been transported to the Labuan Maritime Jetty for further investigation. Izwanhadi stated that the case is under investigation in compliance with relevant anti-smuggling and customs regulations. He also urged the maritime community to report any suspicious activities at sea through the emergency line 999 or the Labuan Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 087-427999 for prompt action.