MMEA detains vessel for anchoring without permission at Tanjung Penyusop

JOHOR BAHRU, Nov 22 -- The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has detained a bulk carrier vessel for anchoring without permission at 3.5 nautical mile east of Tanjung Penyusop.

Tanjung Sedili Maritime Zone (ZMTS) director Maritime Captain Mohd Zulfadli Nayan said the ship registered at Kribi, Republic of Cameroon, Central Africa was detained at 2.30 pm.

During the detention, the ship “NEW ORION” was operated by 23 crew members including a captain between the ages of 21 and 68, comprising of Ukrainians and Russians including its captain.

Mohd Zulfadli in a statement said that two of the crew members were taken to ZMTS for further action.

The case is being investigated under Section 491B(1)(I) of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (MSO) 1952 for failing achoring without the permission of the Marine Department director.

Meanwhile, in the same statement, Mohd Zulfahdli said an awareness programme 'Sembang Santai Sahabat Maritim” was held at the Tanjung Sedili Malaysia Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM) complex today to disseminate information on matters related to registration, boat licensing and current regulations to the local maritime community.

He said the programme was well received by the Sedili and Pengerang Fishermen's Association, local fishermen, leaders and sport fishing and recreational boat operators.

-- BERNAMA