Bandar Seri Begawan - The Marine Police, yesterday, ran Operation Oil Rig Series 43/2012 around the area of the Champion Oilrig using the boat PDB 18.

During the operation, Marine Police were successful in detaining a boat with two Bruneian citizens carrying out fishing activities in the area in question.

Both men were brought to the Police Headquarters to undergo further interrogation.

Initial findings found the suspects had gone into a 'Safety Zone' when they were detained based on entry coordinates that were taken as proof of offence.

Based on the evidence gathered, the suspects will be charged in court under Chapter 4 of the Shipping and Trade Terms Act 145 (Safety Zone) Law 1988 as they were found within 500 metres of an oilrig.

The public is reminded that the 'Safety Zone' is a 500-metre radius from an oilrig whereby the distance in question is considered a restricted area including to those who wish to carry out fishing activities.

Entering and carrying out any activities within the said distance will become an offence under Chapter 4 of the Shipping and Trade Terms Act 145 (Safety Zone) Law 1988 and upon conviction can be charged a fine of no more than $100,000 or a jail sentence not exceeding 10 years upon failure to pay the fine stated.

Entering the 'Safety Zone' is not only considered an offence, it is also prohibited due to safety reasons as doing so can put one's life in danger due to the risk of fire or explosion.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin