Malaysian authorities seized two vessels carrying nearly 130 million USD in crude oil in the country's western waters, following a tip-off on 29/1. The operation led to the apprehension of 53 crew members from multiple countries.

Muhammad Ramli, head of Malaysia's Penang state maritime enforcement agency, announced the seizure on 31/1. "After receiving a report on 29/1, we inspected and found two vessels anchored close together, suspected of illegal oil transfer," he stated.

The two vessels were apprehended approximately 44 km off Muka Cape, western Malaysia. The crew consisted of citizens from India, Iran, Myanmar, Pakistan, and China.

Two vessels suspected of crude oil smuggling off Malaysia in a photo taken on 29/1. Photo: MMEA

The vessels face investigation for illegal anchoring and illicit oil transfer, with potential fines of 25,000 USD and 50,000 USD respectively. Authorities have not yet disclosed the names of the vessels, their points of origin, or the source of the oil.

The waters off Malaysia are known for numerous illegal ship-to-ship oil transfers, often used to conceal the origin of cargo. Malaysian officials announced plans in 7/2025 to tighten enforcement against such activities.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, AP, Reuters)