Singapore-flagged tanker detained off Johor

In a sign that authorities are getting tougher on outside port limit (OPL) ship-to-ship transfers, the Singapore-flagged tanker MT Amba Bhakti has been detained for illegally anchoring outside the designated area for ships in Tanjung Piai in Johor, Seatrade Asia online reports.

Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) officers carrying out routine checks, spotted the vessel anchored outside the designated anchorage at around 15-15hrs on Saturday. Local reports said the vessel's master had failed to inform authorities about its arrival and also not paid light dues.

The authorities detained the 25 Indian crew to assist with investigations and the vessel's owner now faces action under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance for failing to inform the Marine Department director of ship-to-ship activity in Malaysian waters, an offence punishable by fines of up to MYR100,000 ($32,738), two years' imprisonment or both.