Kuala Lumpur: 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.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MMEA’s director-general, Admiral Maritime Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah, stated that the largest seizure during the operation involved two foreign fishing vessels, valued at RM3 million. He reported that a total of 312 individuals categorized as Persons of Interest (OYDS), including 13 foreign nationals from Myanmar, Indonesia, China, Iran, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and others, were detained during the operation.

The highest number of offences recorded fell under the Fisheries Act 1985 with 44 cases, followed by the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 with 26 cases, and the Immigration Act 1959/63 with 16 cases. Other seized items included contraband cigarettes worth RM958,000; lobster and fish fry valued at RM500,490; boats and engines totaling RM222,290; vehicles at RM70,500; controlled goods amounting to RM17,671.50; dragon traps/stingray nets worth RM37,160; and diesel/petrol valued at RM3,215.

Mohd Rosli highlighted that Johor recorded the highest number of arrests with 22 cases, followed by Sabah and the Federal Territories with 21 cases, and Sarawak with 14 cases. He noted that the overall number of cases has decreased, reflecting the effectiveness of early preventive measures, continuous monitoring, and strong cooperation from the maritime community.

The operation, known as Ops Pagar Laut, was carried out in four phases. These phases included intelligence gathering and asset readiness, enforcement during and after Aidilfitri, and concluded with a post-operation debrief. Mohd Rosli also expressed appreciation to the 800 officers and personnel who were deployed in shifts throughout the operation for their tireless efforts working day and night.