KUCHING: Marine police have detained three locals and seized items worth RM15,000 after inspecting a Class A fishing boat operating illegally three nautical miles offshore.
Commanding officer ACP AB Rahman Mat Hasan confirmed that the arrest took place on February 8 at 12 noon during OP Taring Tango Papa.
The operation was carried out by a team from Botronda PSC 34 PPM W5 Kuching, acting on received information.
Upon inspection, authorities found that the fishing boat was using a trawl net in an area not permitted under its license.
The case is being investigated under the Fisheries Act 1985 for violating licensing conditions.
The suspects and seized items have been handed over to the Investigating Officer of the Fisheries Department of Kuching Division, Sarawak, for further action.
Rahman reminded the public that violating the Fisheries Act 1985, specifically Section 8(b) regarding breaches of license conditions, could result in vessel confiscation and fines upon conviction.
By Connie Chieng