KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) confiscated a pump boat and paraphernalia used in fish bombing activities in Tanjung Saban, near here.
Sabah and Labuan MMEA director Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah said the enforcement team detected suspicious activities when carrying out sea patrolling yesterday.
He said there were two people onboard a yellow pump boat believed to be fishing using explosive devices.
"When the enforcement team approached, the pump boat sped towards a nearby beach. Upon reaching shallow waters, two men were seen jumping into the sea and escaped.
"Upon inspection, our team found traditional diving devices and explosives. All confiscated items were taken to the Sepanggar Maritime jetty and handed over to the investigating officer for further action," he said.
In reminding the maritime community against illegal fishing, Mohd Rosli said foreign offenders could be fined under Section 25 (a) of the Fisheries Act 1965.
Offenders can be liable to a fine not exceeding RM6 million each for the boat owner or captain, and RM600,000 for each crew member.
For locals, the punishement is subject to Section 25 (b) which is a fine not exceeding RM20,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or both.