KOTA KINABALU: Two Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) officers were shot during a chase with suspected criminals in waters off Kunak in the early hours of Sunday (April 7).

The two - vessel captain Zainal Abad Komel, 45, and Prayrie De Cuella Jimin, 35 - were patrolling the waters when they noticed a blue pump boat close to Kampung Pangi, Kunak at around 8.30am.

“As they approached, shots were fired at our men. We believe three suspects fired four shots at our officials,” said Lahad Datu MMEA Commander Dr. Suzanna Razali Chan in a statement.

She said it led to a shootout between the suspects and MMEA officials at around 8.40am.

“Zainal was injured in his right eye while Prayrie hurt both hands while trying to return fire in self-defence,” she said.

Four others on board the MMEA vessel Bot Banggi 48, were unhurt, said Suzanna adding that a full manhunt has been mounted for the suspects.

“We have mobilised our special action force and rescue team, air support and intelligence division to the location to investigate and hunt the suspects,” she said, adding that Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) officials are also part of this rescue and probe.