What specific permits are required for diesel transfers at sea?

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Specific Permits for At-Sea Diesel Transfers are Not Detailed in the Incident Report

The incident involving the seizure of the Off Shore Gemia and Success 33 vessels highlights the legal framework surrounding at-sea fuel transfers, particularly concerning the need for official authorisation. While the report confirms that the transfer of approximately 38,000 litres of diesel, valued at RM134,000, was conducted without the requisite permit and approval from the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry, it does not specify the exact permits or approvals that would have been necessary. This lack of explicit detail means the precise documentation required for such operations remains unstated within the provided information.
Unauthorised Fuel Transfer Constitutes an Offence

The core of the legal issue identified by authorities centres on the unauthorised nature of the ship-to-ship (STS) diesel transfer. The operation, observed in Pulau Papan waters, is explicitly stated to be an offence under the Control of Supplies Act 1961. This Act governs the distribution and sale of controlled goods, and in this context, the illegal transfer of diesel falls under its purview. The absence of approval from the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry signifies a breach of regulations designed to monitor and control the movement of such commodities.
Potential Impoundment Under Merchant Shipping Ordinance

Beyond the immediate violation of supply control regulations, the vessels involved in the unauthorised transfer face further repercussions. It is understood that both the Off Shore Gemia and the Success 33 may be impounded for contravening the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952. While the specific provisions of this ordinance related to fuel transfers are not elaborated upon, the potential for vessel impoundment underscores the seriousness of operating outside established maritime legal frameworks. This suggests that maritime authorities have the power to detain vessels engaged in activities that breach national shipping laws.
Significance of the Seizure in Labuan Waters

The seizure, which included the vessels and the diesel, represents a significant operation for the Labuan marine police. The total value of the seized assets, encompassing the Off Shore Gemia (estimated at RM15 million), the Success 33 (RM120,000), and the diesel (RM134,000), underscores the scale of the illegal activity. The operation, codenamed ‘Op Gelora’, resulted in the arrest of the two Malaysian skippers, aged 36 and 47, indicating a direct enforcement action against individuals involved in the unauthorised transfer. This event is noted as the largest seizure in the marine police's operations to date.

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What specific permits are required for diesel transfers at sea?

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