Asia/Pacific News
MGO Tanker Detained in Malaysia
A marine gas oil (MGO) tanker was detained in Pengerang waters Saturday after allegedly anchoring in an unauthorised area, Malaysian newspaper The Star reports.
A Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) team on a routine patrol saw the ship anchoring southeast of Tanjung Ramunia at about 6 p.m.
"The vessel was detained as it had anchored in a restricted area," said Captain Amran Daud, chief enforcement officer for Tanjung Sedili.
"Further checks also found that it had no valid documents or permission to anchor in Malaysian waters."
Amran said the MMEA detained the captain and chief engineer to assist in investigations, which he said could lead to a fine of up to RM 100,000 ($31,600), two years' imprisonment, or both.
He said the agency has detained 15 vessels for similar offences so far this year.
The incident came after two ships were seized Tuesday in Malaysia for allegedly transferring fuel illegally.
He said the agency will increase its presence, especially in Pengerang waters.
