Penang MMEA detains two oil tankers with crude oil worth RM512M, involving 53 crew, under investigation for illegal ship-to-ship transfer
GEORGE TOWN: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) in Penang detained two oil tankers suspected of carrying out ship-to-ship (STS) transfer of crude oil worth more than RM512 million in the state’s waters last Thursday.
Penang Maritime director, Maritime Capt Muhammad Suffi Mohd Ramli said a marine patrol boat received a report at 1 am that two oil tankers were anchored 24 nautical miles west of Muka Head and were suspected of conducting oil transfer activities.
He said inspections at the location found both vessels moored together and suspected of engaging in ship-to-ship transfer activities.
“The two vessels are believed to have carried out crude oil transfer activities involving 53 crew members comprising Chinese, Myanmar, Iranian, Pakistani and Indian nationals.
“The value of the seized crude oil exceeded RM512 million, while the value of both oil tankers amounted to RM718 million,” he said in a statement today.
Muhammad Suffi said the ship captains and the vessels were subsequently detained before being handed over to investigation officers from the Penang MMEA for further action.
He said the case is being investigated under Section 491B(1)(l) of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 for anchoring without permission from the Marine Department director-general.
