The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) raided and seized two oil tankers while they were illegally transferring crude oil worth a total of 512 million ringgit, approximately 4.1 billion baht, off the coast of Penang state. Over 50 foreign crew members were found onboard. Authorities plan to expand investigations into illicit declarations of the oil's origin.
Local media reported that the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) in Penang took control of two oil tankers after receiving intelligence about unauthorized crude oil transfers worth a combined 512 million ringgit (about 4.1 billion baht).
Penang Maritime Director Navy Captain Muhammad Sofi Mohamed Ramli stated the incident occurred around 01:00 on Thursday, 29 January. Patrol vessels were alerted to two oil tankers anchored about 24 nautical miles west of Tanjung Muka.
Upon inspection, officials found the two vessels moored side by side, apparently preparing to transfer oil. A total of 53 crew members were onboard, including nationals from China, Myanmar, Iran, Pakistan, and India.
Preliminary checks estimated the seized crude oil's value at over 512 million ringgit (approximately 4.1 billion baht), with the combined value of both oil tankers at 718 million ringgit (around 5.75 billion baht). Captains and all crew members have been detained and handed over to investigators for prosecution. Initial charges include unauthorized anchoring, punishable by a fine up to 100,000 ringgit, and illegal oil transfer between vessels, subject to a maximum fine of 200,000 ringgit per vessel under Section 491B(1) of the 1952 Shipping Act.
Malaysian waters are frequently used as sites for illegal oil transfers to conceal the crude oil's origin. Since July last year, Malaysian authorities have announced plans to intensify inspections and strictly enforce laws to prevent smuggling activities that threaten the nation's economy and maritime security.
. The Star