INDONESIA’S maritime authority has detained four boats, including two Malaysian-flagged ones, over alleged illegal fishing in its waters.

The Marine Affairs and Fisheries Ministry in a statement said the two Malaysian-flagged boats – with registration numbers PKFB 1269 and PKFB 1280, respectively – were detected in the Straits of Malacca on June 8.

“This demonstrates our commitment to eradicate illegal fishing, as well as protect marine and fishery resources,” said Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance director-general Adin Nurawaluddin.

The boats and seized items have been taken to Belawan Fishing Port in Medan, North Sumatra.

Indonesia has detained 79 foreign and local illegal boats so far this year, including eight Malaysian-flagged boats. – Bernama, June 13, 2022.