ROMPIN: Four Indonesian nationals were among five fishermen detained after testing positive for drugs during a two-day special operation at private jetties near Teluk Gading here.
The operation, codenamed Op Kilau Samudera that ended on Aug 15, was jointly carried out by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) with the National Anti-Drug Agency (Nada).
Pahang MMEA director First Admiral Mazlan Mat Rejab said the five suspects aged between 27 and 47 had tested positive for methamphetamine.
"A total of 44 local and foreign fishermen were screened during the operation, which began about noon on Aug 14 and ended at 6am the following day.
"The inspection involved 30 enforcement officers from MMEA and Nada. The operation focused on fishing boats anchored at private jetties and boats near the Teluk Gading estuary.
"All suspects are being investigated under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. The four Indonesian fishermen were detained by MMEA for further investigations, while the local man has been handed over to Nada for further action," he said in a statement today (Saturday).
Mazlan said the operation was the second for this year, which aimed to curb drug abuse among the fishing community and prevent maritime crimes.
"Similar operations will be regularly conducted at fishing jetties in Pahang to combat drugs and illegal activities in Malaysian waters," he said.
He asked members of the public with information on illegal activities at sea or emergencies to contact the Malaysia Emergency Response Services (MERS 999) or Pahang Maritime Operating Centre at 09-571 7345.