MMEA Intercepts Two Boats Carrying Undocumented Myanmar Nationals
MMEA Activates Operation GUARD to Track Undocumented Migrants
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has intercepted two boats carrying nearly 300 undocumented Myanmar nationals off the southwest coast of Pulau Rebak, Langkawi, yesterday. The boats were located at around 4.16 pm, with passengers appearing exhausted after an arduous journey without sufficient food and water.
Immediate Assistance Provided
According to MMEA Director-General Admiral Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah, the agency provided immediate assistance to the passengers, including food supplies and drinking water, before escorting the boats out of Malaysian waters to continue their journey. "It is estimated that nearly 300 individuals were on board. The agency provided immediate assistance, including food supplies and drinking water, before escorting the boats out of Malaysian waters to continue their journey," he said in a statement today.
Cooperation with Thai Authorities
The MMEA is working closely with Thai enforcement authorities to gather more information about the movements of the boats. "We are working closely with Thai enforcement authorities to gather more information about the movements of the boats," Mohd Rosli added.
Call to Action
Mohd Rosli urged the maritime community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities via the emergency hotline 999 or the Langkawi Maritime Rescue Sub Centre (MRSC) at 04-9662750 or 011-58925868.
Background: Operation GUARD
The MMEA had activated Operation GUARD and intensified patrols to track other undocumented Myanmar nationals reportedly heading to Langkawi. The operation is a response to the detention of 196 Myanmar nationals in the Pantai Teluk Yu area of Langkawi at 3.25 am yesterday, after their boat ran aground in the area.
Conclusion
The MMEA’s swift action in providing assistance to the undocumented migrants and its efforts to track and intercept similar boats demonstrate its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all individuals at sea. As the agency continues to work with international partners to address the issue of human trafficking and irregular migration, it is essential for the maritime community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the MMEA’s role in intercepting boats carrying undocumented migrants?
The MMEA is responsible for intercepting and providing assistance to boats carrying undocumented migrants, as well as working with international partners to address the issue of human trafficking and irregular migration. - How many people were on board the two boats intercepted by the MMEA?
It is estimated that nearly 300 individuals were on board the two boats. - What is Operation GUARD?
Operation GUARD is an MMEA operation aimed at tracking and intercepting boats carrying undocumented migrants, including those heading to Langkawi.