Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained a vessel carrying 41 Indonesian illegal immigrants in the waters of Teluk Senangin near Batu Malang near Lumut early this morning. Perak MMEA director Capt (M) Mohamad Shukri Khotob stated that a MMEA patrol boat moved to the location after receiving a tipoff from the public at 12.40 am.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, during the operation, the vessel's skipper acted aggressively in an attempt to evade capture, performing several hazardous manoeuvres. The vessel rammed the MMEA boat four times, posing a risk to the safety of the personnel involved. Despite these challenges, MMEA personnel successfully blocked, intercepted, and detained the vessel at 3.35 am.

An inspection of the vessel uncovered 29 men and 12 women, aged between 21 and 57, who are believed to be illegal immigrants from Indonesia. The individuals, along with the vessel, were escorted to the Kampung Acheh Royal Malaysian Customs Department Jetty. They were handed over to the Perak Maritime Investigating Officer for further action.

The case is currently under investigation, with potential charges under the Immigration Act 1959/63 and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 being considered.