Sabah and Labuan MMEA director First Admiral Mohd Zubil Mat Som said the boats were detained in waters off Kota Kinabalu for among others, overloading and not being equipped with life jackets.

“Some of the boats were detained for allowing passengers to disembark at un-gazetted areas and there were also those operating with expired licences,” he told reporters here today.

Mohd Zubil said the special operation, involving 106 officers and members of the MMEA, was aimed at ensuring operators of tour boats complied with stipulated regulations for the safety of tourists.

“The operation is being carried out following the incident in which a catamaran capsized in waters off Pulau Mengalum last month. It (the operation) will give us a comprehensive overview to propose improvements in terms of safety,” he added.

Mohd Zubil said checks during the operation found that all boats operating in waters off Kota Kinabalu did not have the Automatic Identification System (AIS) installed.

“Therefore, I suggest all operators install the AIS or at least communication equipment (VHF radio).

“The equipment is very important as it will facilitate and speed up our operations in case anything happens to the boats.”

On Jan 28, a catamaran carrying 28 Chinese tourists and three crew members, capsized due to strong winds and high waves while on its way to Pulau Mengalum.

22 victims were rescued. Four were found dead.