Keep Away From Offshore Oil Rigs Fishermen Urged
By Azlan Othman

Bandar Seri Begawan - Putting a stop to errant fishing within 500 metres of all offshore fields, and to ensure the fishermen did not use explosives or poison when fishing, were among the aims of a joint operation conducted in Brunei waters yesterday.

The use of explosives and poison was against the Fishery regulations and national security, local fishermen have been told. An operation conducted around Champion 7 and Maharaja-Lela offshore fields by law enforcement officers ended last night.

The move was also aimed at ensuring foreign workers did not violate labour and immigration regulations by enrolling in commercial fishing activities.

Codenamed 'Operasi Menangin 5', it was jointly conducted by the Fisheries Department, Royal Brunei Marine Police, Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Internal Security Department and Marine Department.

During the five-hour joint operation that began at around 3pm yesterday, the officers did not find any offending fishermen near the prohibited area.

Champion 7, Maharaja Lela, Magpie oil field, Fairley oil field 1, Fairley Baram oil field and South West Ampa oil field, were clear of any fishing activities.

The joint operation also served as a stern reminder to errant fishermen as well as to enforce a 500 metre prohibition of sea fishing near all offshore fields.

This comes under the Marine Department Act in the Merchant Shipping Order 2002 and Chapter 61 of the Fishery Act, as well as laws and other enforcement agencies. Safety was the prime concern at offshore oilfields. Fishermen tend to take advantage the offshore rigs which is believed by the enforcement officers to become "Takat" to attract more fish. (Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin)

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