ID :
19593
Mon, 09/15/2008 - 16:57
Auther :
Shortlink :
https://oananews.org//node/19593
The shortlink copeid
FOREIGN FISHING BOATS USED FOR SMUGGLING ACTIVITIES IN M'SIAN WATERS
PASIR PUTEH (Malaysia), Sept 15 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) are facing an uphill task in tracking down smugglers who use foreign vessels, fishing boats and "tontos" (spies) along the Malaysia-Thailand waters to smuggle drugs, firearms, diesel, rice and sugar to foreign countries.
Tok Bali District Maritime Enforcement Head, Maritime Commander Rozali Mohd Said claimed that efforts of the MMEA to nab smugglers operating in the area, was regularly hampered by the slick operation of smugglers who use a network of "tontos" to provide information.
"Smuggling activities are normally carried out at night, using high powered speed boats," he told reporters here Monday.
Rozali said that despite a number of failed missions, the MMEA are committed in their pursuit to end smuggling activities in Malaysian waters but admitted they would require more sophisticated equipment to track down the smugglers.
He added that since January, 472 vessels and boats were hauled in for inspection and 25 arrests were made, including 18 foreign fishermen.
Tok Bali District Maritime Enforcement Head, Maritime Commander Rozali Mohd Said claimed that efforts of the MMEA to nab smugglers operating in the area, was regularly hampered by the slick operation of smugglers who use a network of "tontos" to provide information.
"Smuggling activities are normally carried out at night, using high powered speed boats," he told reporters here Monday.
Rozali said that despite a number of failed missions, the MMEA are committed in their pursuit to end smuggling activities in Malaysian waters but admitted they would require more sophisticated equipment to track down the smugglers.
He added that since January, 472 vessels and boats were hauled in for inspection and 25 arrests were made, including 18 foreign fishermen.
