KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) arrested three men in possession of packets of syabu, during a sea patrol in Pulau Malawali waters, off Kudat.
The men, aged between 19 and 47, were onboard a wooden boat when the maritime enforcement personnel spotted their suspicious-looking vessel at about 2.30pm yesterday.
Kudat MMEA director Lieutenant Commander Boon Chin Chan said the boat was heading towards Pulau Malawali from Pulau Sibogo, off Kudat district, about 190km northeast of here.
"The trio, including the skipper, failed to produce their identity documents and upon further inspection, we found two packets of syabu, one hidden in a cigarette box, the other in a handphone case.
"We also found a plastic bag containing cash amounting to RM6,680," he said, adding that the drugs weigh 1.53 grammes.
Boon said the three men and all seized items, including the boat, were taken to the Kudat maritime base and handed over to the agency's investigation unit.
"We are committed to enhancing sea patrol and surveillance in an effort to combat illegal activities at sea," he added.