Malaysia’s marine police nab 2,707, record 7,627 cases in national waters this year

In the first nine months of 2023, Malaysia's Marine Police Force (PPM) made a record arrest of 2,707 individuals in 7,627 criminal cases within national waters. Director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri credited this success to continuous enforcement through various operations such as Op Taring Gelora, Op Taring Landai, and cross-agency operations. The team also seized and fined a total of RM525 million.

The most common offenses included violations of the Fisheries Act 1985 (3,214 cases), Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (428), Control of Supplies Control Act 1961 (295), Immigration Act 1959/63 and ATIPSOM Act 2007 (213), and Customs Act 1967 (189 cases). The PPM's cooperation with regional enforcement agencies from Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, and the Philippines also contributed to the achievement.

Illegal immigrant smuggling remains a concern, with offenders employing various methods to infiltrate Malaysia through international waters. These activities are primarily focused around Perak, Selangor, Johor, and the northern part of the peninsula.

The PPM is currently working on 22 projects under the Malaysia Plan (11MP to 13MP), worth RM1.064 billion. They also have plans for 19 additional projects worth RM2.28 billion, including the construction of operational bases. Additionally, the PPM will receive two aircraft carriers and five Fast Patrol Crafts, each valued at RM100 million, to further enhance their capabilities in safeguarding the country's waters.

At the event, Mohd Yusri presented the PPM 2026 Hero Award to 72-year-old Sub Inspector (B) Jakarta Makling, recognizing his contributions and sacrifices throughout his service since joining the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) on May 28, 1972. Makling recounted his experience during a battle with pirates in Lahad Datu, Sabah in 1976, where he was shot and still has the bullet embedded in his shoulder as a reminder of his dedication to protect the safety of the nation's waters.