MOHD SABRAN MD SANI New Straits Times 2 Mar 19;
BATU PAHAT: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) foiled a bid to smuggle 3,300 terrapins worth RM150,000 into the state, with the arrest of two men in Tanjung Tohor, Muar here yesterday.
Its director, Maritime Commander Mohammad Othman, said the success followed a joint inspection by the agency and the 6th Battalion general operations force in Parit Unas Pos.
He said enforcers discovered 3,300 terrapins inside seven bags after inspecting a suspicious boat at 12.30am,
“It is believed the boat’s two crew members tried to smuggle the reptiles into the country to be sold, especially to restaurants that serve them as exotic dishes.”
He said the two men, aged 30 and 50 years, were handed over to the Wildlife and National Parks Department.
He said MMEA was serious in combating activities that violated laws.
“Thus, we hope the public will report any activities that break laws applicable to the Malaysian Maritime Zone.”
In case of emergency or complaints, call Malaysian Emergency Response Service 999 24-hour line and Batu Pahat Maritime Zone operations centre at 07-4344020.
