Malaysian enforcement authorities have seized two tankers allegedly involved in an unauthorised bunkering operation in waters off the state of Perak, according to Ship & Bunker.
Joint Operation Intercepts Vessels Near Pulau Jarak
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) announced via social media that the two vessels were intercepted during a joint operation at approximately 8:00 PM local time on Monday, roughly 11 nautical miles east of Pulau Jarak.
Upon boarding and inspection, authorities found that the tankers were allegedly carrying out an unsanctioned ship-to-ship (STS) transfer of bunker fuel. The vessels were also found to have been anchoring in a restricted area without the required approval from Malaysia’s Marine Department, Ship & Bunker reports.
Around 750 MT of MFO Allegedly Transferred
Authorities estimated that approximately 750 metric tonnes of marine fuel oil (MFO) had changed hands between the two vessels during the illicit operation. Following the interception, both tankers were directed to anchor at a nearby location before being escorted to a Marine Police jetty, where investigations are ongoing.
Legal Proceedings Under Maritime Law
According to Ship & Bunker, the case is being investigated under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 alongside other applicable maritime regulations. No further details regarding the vessels’ identities, flags, or crew nationalities were included in the MMEA’s announcement.
This incident highlights the continued efforts by Malaysian maritime authorities to clamp down on illegal bunkering activity in the region’s busy shipping lanes.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
