Fatal Incident, Philippine Coast Guard vs Taiwanese F/V

There has been a report of a fatal use of force by the Philippine Coast Guard against a small Taiwanese fishing vessel.

There is certainly a lot of tension in the area, but the Philippines claim the incident took place in waters recognized as Philippine by all parties. The part of the story I find most disturbing was this statement by the Philippine Coast Guard spokesman.

Balilo said the coastguard quickly left the area after it saw a third vessel, “a big white ship”, come into view.

“Our people felt threatened so they left the area,” he said.

Because they left the scene rather than continuing with the seizure of the vessel it will be impossible to have a proper investigation of the incident.

Eleven Philippine Coast Guardsmen have been suspended pending results of an investigation.

8 thoughts on “Fatal Incident, Philippine Coast Guard vs Taiwanese F/V

  1. Pingback: Death of a Fisherman | Center for International Maritime SecurityCenter for International Maritime Security

Leave a comment