Maritime Malaysia Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained Sierra Leone registered cargo ship MV Kong on 25 December, at 0.7 nautical miles west of Bagan Ajam.
According to Penang State Maritime Director, Marine Captain Abd Razak bin Mohamed, the vessel was detained as it allegedly anchored without permission given by Malaysian authorities.
The ship, including its Captain, is operated by a total of nine crew members.
Results of further investigations found that they were suspected of committing a mistake under Section 491B(1)(l) of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952.
As a result, the ship and its crew were taken to the Batu Uban PPM Jetty to be handed over to the Maritime Investigation Officer of Penang.
If found guilty, individuals may be fined not exceeding RM 100,000 or face an imprisonment term of not more than two years, or both.
