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17 Crew Detained for Illegal Tugboat Anchoring in Malaysia

1/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained two Singapore-registered tugboats and 17 Indonesian crew for illegal anchoring near Pulau Besar.
They were spotted on January 6, failing to report arrival from Singapore and lacking a permit from Malaysia.
Maritime Comm Suhaizan Saadin said the crew, aged 38 to 51, were taken to Mersing jetty for investigation.
The MMEA plans to enhance maritime surveillance in the area.

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Story summary

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained two Singapore-registered tugboats and 17 Indonesian crew for illegal anchoring near Pulau Besar.
They were spotted on January 6, failing to report arrival from Singapore and lacking a permit from Malaysia.
Maritime Comm Suhaizan Saadin said the crew, aged 38 to 51, were taken to Mersing jetty for investigation.
The MMEA plans to enhance maritime surveillance in the area.