Malaysian maritime authorities have intercepted an illegal ship-to-ship transfer of crude oil, resulting in the seizure of cargo valued at approximately $129.9 million. The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) confirmed the operation but did not disclose the origin of the oil involved.
According to official statements, the illicit transfer was intercepted 24 nautical miles west of Muda Head, Penang. This particular maritime zone has been identified as a high-risk area for unauthorized oil trading. The Malaysian government had previously announced in July last year that it would intensify surveillance and enforcement efforts in this region to curb such illegal activities.
During the operation, authorities detained two oil tankers carrying a total of 53 crew members. The crew comprised nationals from China, Myanmar, Iran, Pakistan, and India. The MMEA further confirmed that the captains of both vessels have been arrested as part of the ongoing investigation into the matter.
