Saturday October 23, 2010
Smuggling activities at sea thwarted by poor visibility
JOHOR BARU: The current haze is expected to make it nearly impossible for smugglers to criss-cross the Malacca Straits if last year’s condition is an indication. Smugglers find it hard to enter Malaysian waters as the visibility at sea is worse compared to that on land.
The haze poses more danger at sea as there are no structures or lights to aid navigation. Marine Police Region 2 chief Asst Comm Mohd Khamsani Abdul Rahman said that although there were no smuggling of goods or illegal immigrants during last year’s haze, his personnel were not taking any chances.
“We will still be beefing up patrols,” he said. ACP Mohd Khamsani said marine police would focus more on several hotspots located along Johor’s south east area of Kota Tinggi where most smuggling cases were reported. “So far, we have yet to receive any reports on smuggling activities.”
ACP Mohd Khamsani said patrol boats were equipped with modern navigation systems to help officers patrol the sea. “Our men have been told to take necessary precautions including putting on face masks when they are out there. Anyone with information on smuggling activities has been urged to contact the authorities at 07-238 1953.
