By Zaki Salleh
Photo: Maritime
LUMUT: A total of 30 sets of dragon traps (illegal fishing trap) were seized by Maritime Malaysia, having been placed approximately 0.4 nautical miles northeast of Pulau Talang.
Each trap, measuring around 10 meters in length, was found to be set up in a chain formation.
The Director of Maritime Perak, Captain Mohamad Shukri Khotob, stated that the traps were detected during a routine patrol when suspicious flags were spotted at the location.
He explained that an inspection by Maritime Malaysia’s patrol boat crew confirmed that the flags tied to wooden stakes were markers for the dragon traps.
“All of the dragon traps, estimated to be worth RM3,000, were seized for further investigation and action,” he said.
The owner of the dragon traps may be charged under Section 11(3)(c) of the Fisheries Act 1985 for fishing using prohibited methods.
If convicted, the offender could face a fine of up to RM20,000, imprisonment, or both.
