Two tankers were detained over the weekend by Malaysian authorities for an attempt to transfer illegally about 700,000 litres of diesel fuel off the island of Penang.

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) said it has detained two tankers together with 22 crew in one operation in the waters of Bagan Ajam for allegedly conducting an illegal transfer of about 700,000 litres of diesel fuel.

Penang MMEA has been cracking down on fuel smuggling amid mounting shortages and supply disruptions throughout the region caused by the war in the Middle East.

Penang MMEA director captain Muhammad Suffi Mohd Ramli said the operation followed intelligence information received at 10.45am on suspicious movements involving the two ships anchored at the respective location.

Following the information, a Malaysian patrol boat was sent to the location for inspection.

“An inspection found that both vessels were side by side and suspected to be carrying out ship-to-ship oil transfer activities without permission,” he said.

He added that further inspection found that the activity involved an estimated 700,000 litres transfer of Euro 5 diesel oil, while the total amount seized was ‌estimated ⁠at around 800,000 litres.

According to him, the operation also led to the detention of 22 crew comprising of Malaysian, Myanmar, Russian, Filipinos and Indonesian nationals who were on board both vessels.

The offence carries a fine of up to MYR 200,000 for each vessel.

All the detained crews and vessels were later brought to shore before being handed over to Penang MMEA investigating officer for further action.

The MMEA did not specify ​the origin of ​the tankers, ⁠the diesel, or the fuel’s destination.