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