The Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained two vessels in Johor waters, on 6 October, for illegal ship-to-ship bunker transfers.
According to local media, a MMEA patrol team found the two vessels on Octover 5, about 14 nautical miles east of Tanjung Kelesa, Kota Tinggi.
Commenting on the detention, the Maritime Capt. Mohd Zulfadli Nayan MMEA Tanjung Sedili Maritime Zone Director, said that the ships were found to be sailing suspiciously close together.
Further investigations showed that both vessels did not have the appropriate contract documents or insurance policies.
The bulk carrier was carrying 23 crew onboard, while the tanker had eight crew onboard.
The detained vessels will now be investigated for anchoring without a permit andfor carrying out ship-to ship transfers illegally,
MMEA will also continue to increase its efforts to improve security and ensure the safety of ships within Malaysian waters.