The port at Malau [Source: Fiji Ports]

Villages in the district of Mali in Macuata have been urged to be on the lookout for foreign vessels that come to the port at Malau.

Immigration officer Labasa Veresa Ceguadrau told the Mali district meeting at Matailabasa today, these vessels need to be cleared by authorities first.

He says the clearance process involves several agencies, FRCA, biosecurity, the ministry of health and immigration.

Village heads were also told that crew members have to have visas to get off the boats.

Ceguadrau adds, there have been several cases in the past where they have had to send crews back to their homes because they did not have proper documentation.

He is urging the village heads to always be alert and to report any suspicious activities by these foreign vessels.