KOTA KINABALU: The Marine police have detained three men for operating a sand dredging vessel illegally at Usukan island off the waters of Kota Belud, here.
The vessel, suspected to be registered in Mongolia, was seized during the Op Terancang at 5pm yesterday. According to sources, Kota Kinabalu marine police personnel also seized the vessel and sand, which were estimated to be worth RM7.5 million.
"The vessel was carrying out sea sand mining activities 0.38 nautical miles from Usukan island. The captain of the vessel, an Indonesian citizen, failed to produce any permits to dredge sand at the area."
He added that the captain and two Chinese crew members were detained to assist in the investigation.
Sabah marine police Region 4 commander assistant commissioner Ahmad Ariffin, when contacted, confirmed the seizure and confiscation.
"The seized vessel and sand will be handed over to the relevant departments and agencies for further action," he said.
