Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained 11 Indonesian men and seized a fiberglass boat carrying approximately 7,500 kilograms of suspected crushed tin ore, valued at RM900,000. Pahang Maritime Director First Admiral (Maritime) Mazlan Mat Rejab disclosed that the 11 crew members, including the skipper, aged between 23 and 52, were apprehended along with the boat at 11.40 pm yesterday, about 1.5 nautical miles southeast of Tioman Island.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, upon noticing the presence of an MMEA patrol boat, the vessel attempted to flee towards Tioman Island but was successfully intercepted after a 55-minute chase. Initial investigations revealed that the boat is believed to have originated from Sarang Island, Batam, Indonesia, and was attempting to smuggle the cargo into Malaysian waters.

The apprehended individuals were taken to the Teluk Gading Maritime Post Jetty for further investigation by the MMEA. The boat is suspected of violating the Customs Act 1967 for attempting to import or export uncustomed goods, as well as the Immigration Act 1959/63 for failing to produce valid identification documents.

Mazlan emphasized that MMEA will continue to bolster maritime border control through integrated intelligence and continuous patrols to ensure the safety and sovereignty of Malaysia’s waters. He urged the public to report any criminal activities or emergencies at sea through the Pahang State Maritime Operations Centre at 09-571 7345 or the emergency line 999 for immediate action.