IPOH, Feb 2 — An Italian-registered trade ship has been detained by the Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) nearby Pangkor Island for illegally dropping anchor in Malaysian waters.

Officers from the MMEA’s Lumut Maritime District 3 seized the RBD Italia around 6.4 nautical miles southwest of Pulau Dua, Pangkor Island yesterday evening.

A spokesperson for the agency said the ship was anchored without the necessary documents.

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“Our investigations found that the ship was registered in Italy and had 21 crew members on board, including the captain,” the spokesperson said in a statement issued via WhatsApp today.

“The crew included five Italian nationals, 15 Philippine nationals, and one Romanian.

“The ship and its crew have been taken into custody under Maritime detaining orders and they have been handed over to investigating officers for further action.”

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The spokesperson said the case would be investigated for dropping without permission from the Director of Marine under Section 491B (1) of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952.

“The MMEA will continue improving its security controls and the enforcement of maritime laws, to ensure the safety of all vessels passing through Malaysian waters,” added the spokesperson.