CNN —The Philippines has accused Chinese vessels of carrying out “dangerous maneuvers” in a disputed area of the South China Sea in the latest maritime flare-up between the two neighbors.
It claimed the Chinese boats “jeopardized” the safety of the crew members aboard the Philippine vessels, but did not detail how.
It claimed the incident had involved four Chinese coast guard vessels and four Chinese “maritime militia” boats.
Western marine security experts believe Beijing controls a maritime militia hundreds of vessels strong that acts as an unofficial – and officially deniable – force to push its territorial claims both in the South China Sea and beyond.
In response to the latest confrontation, the Chinese coast guard issued a statement on Friday, accusing the Philippines of unauthorized entry into the area.
Persons:
Thomas, “, Thomas Shoal, Ferdinand Marcos Jr
Organizations:
CNN, BRP, BRP Sierra Madre, Court
Locations:
Philippines, South, Philippine, Ayungin, China, Spratly, Beijing, Thomas Shoal . China, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan, Manila, BRP Sierra, China’s Nansha, Hague, South China