Crude oil worth more than RM512 million was seized after the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) intercepted two oil tankers and 53 crew members suspected of conducting illegal ship-to-ship (STS) transfer activities about 24 nautical miles west of Muka Head here on Thursday. "An inspection found both vessels lashed together and believed to be involved in unauthorised ship-to-ship crude oil transfer activities. "The seized crude oil was valued at more than RM512 million, while the combined value of the two tankers is estimated at RM718 million," he said in a statement today. It is also being probed under Section 491B(1)(k) of the same ordinance for conducting ship-to-ship transfer activities without approval from the Marine Department of Malaysia, which carries a fine of up to RM200,000 per vessel. He said Penang Maritime will continue to intensify patrols in state waters to ensure all maritime activities comply with the law.

Source: New Strait Times January 31, 2026 11:12 UTC