MMEA Detains Passenger Boat Carrying Five Live Buffaloes Near Tanjung Perapat
Incident Overview
MIRI (June 5) – The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has successfully detained a passenger boat transporting five live buffaloes, located 3.1 nautical miles south of Tanjung Perapat, at approximately 10.45 am yesterday.
Violation of Veterinary Public Health Ordinance
According to MMEA Miri Maritime Zone Director, Maritime Capt Mohd Khairol Anuar Saad, the boat was apprehended under suspicion of violating Section 9 (1) and (3) of the Veterinary Public Health Ordinance (VPHO) 1999. The offense involved the failure to present a permit for the transfer of farm animals to Sarawak.
Lack of Transportation Permit
During the inspection, the three individuals aboard the boat, including the skipper and two crew members, all locals, failed to provide the necessary transportation permit. This prompted the authorities to take immediate action.
Transfer to Authorities
“The passenger boat with all the crew were escorted to the Lawas District Office Jetty before being handed over to the Sarawak Veterinary Department Officer for further action,” stated Capt Mohd Khairol Anuar Saad in a press release.
MMEA’s Commitment to Law Enforcement
Capt Mohd Khairol Anuar Saad emphasized MMEA’s unwavering commitment to enforcing maritime laws within the Malaysian Maritime Zone. He assured that there will be no leniency towards those who violate the regulations.
Contact Information for Emergencies
For any information, complaints, or emergency incidents at sea, the public is urged to contact the Malaysian Emergency Response Services (MERS) at 999. Alternatively, they can reach out to the Miri Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 085-418204, or the Sarawak State Maritime Operations Centre at 082-432544 / 082-432016.