Embassy offers protection to VN fishermen in Malaysia

June 22, 2016 - 09:00

Việt Nam’s Embassy in Malaysia has taken protective measures towards the 23 Vietnamese fishermen recently arrested by the Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA).

Việt Nam’s Embassy in Malaysia has taken protective measures towards the 23 Vietnamese fishermen recently arrested by the Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA). — VNA/VNS Photo

KUALA LUMPUR – Việt Nam’s Embassy in Malaysia has taken protective measures towards the 23 Vietnamese fishermen recently arrested by the Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA).
Vietnamese Ambassador to Malaysia Phạm Cao Phong said the measures aim to provide the fishermen safety and humane treatment, in line with international and local laws.
According to the ambassador, immediately after Malaysian media reported the MMEA arrested 23 Vietnamese fishermen and one fishing boat in Malaysia’s Kelantan waters, the embassy contacted the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the MMEA to verify the report and to obtain detailed information about the fishermen.
According to MMEA’s reply, 23 Vietnamese fishermen on board boat CM9699TS were arrested on June 16. The arrest took place 110 nautical miles from Kuala Tok Bali shore in Kelantan state. The alleged offense is breaching Article 15 of Malaysia’s 1985 fishing law.
The boat was detained for investigation purposes under Article 47 of the law.
The Embassy sent a diplomatic note to relevant Malaysian agencies, requesting to visit the fishermen and asking local agencies to ensure their lives and humane treatment, in line with international and local laws. The Embassy also demanded the release of the fishermen as soon as possible.
The Embassy reported the incident to the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and asked relevant provincial People’s Committees to coordinate in verifying the identities of the fishermen. --VNS

 

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