Boat seized with explosive material

KENDARI, Southeast Sulawesi: A naval patrol boat KRI Singa recently seized a fishing boat in Maluku waters for carrying explosive materials used for fishing.

KRI Singa commander, Lt. Commander Didin Zaenal Abidin, said here on Friday that the boat was seized around Samada island, five miles west of Taliabo island, Maluku, on June 8.

He said the seven crew members of the boat jumped ship and were able to evade arrest when the fishing boat was intercepted.

But through various evidence and identity cards left on the boat, officers then traced the crew and arrested them, Antara reported.

The confiscated evidence include 30 detonators, 50 grams of potassium, four packages of matches, a 30 meter hose and a compressor.

"Using explosive materials for fishing is forbidden as it ruins the environment. Therefore those found doing it have to be given strong punishment so that they will not it again," Didin said.(09)