Fishermen cautioned over piracy

Fishermen cautioned over piracy

MALAYSIA: Marine police have warned fishermen to be cautious as armed pirates boost their maritime attacks ahead of the year-end festive season, local media reported on Sunday.

Federal marine commander Muhamad Muda was quoted by the Sunday Star as saying pirates had traded their machetes for guns to wage attacks on fishermen and traders in small boats.

Two fishing boats and a trading vessel have been attacked over the past few days, he said, prompting a boost in police marine patrols -- especially at night.

"This is the first time we see a trend of increased attacks by robbers taking advantage of the coming festive season," Muhamad was quoted as saying.

"We advise fishermen not to cross the boundary, be constantly on the look-out and to alert the marine police if they spot any suspicious boats trailing them." -- AFP