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The risks of China’s coast guard projecting police powers at sea
The maritime force’s actions in extending Beijing’s grip over disputed territory are challenging the international maritime legal order and raising fears of armed conflict.
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On Aug 31, a Chinese coastguard ship rammed a Philippine coastguard vessel at Sabina Shoal near the Philippine coast.
PHOTO: AFP
Kathrin Hille
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On July 24, China Coast Guard 5202 sailed loops around Thitu, an island in the Spratlys held by the Philippines, while at least four other vessels loitered around reefs close to the Philippine coast.
Meanwhile, 700km to the south, a Chinese coast guard ship was conducting a weeks-long patrol at Luconia Shoals off the Malaysian coast, and 1,500km to the north, yet another sailed around the Senkaku Islands, capping a record 215-day presence in Japan’s territorial sea.
