TAIPEI (TVBS News) — China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) urged for a swift revelation from Taiwan of the truth behind a capsized Chinese fishing boat incident that led to the deaths of two on board in a statement issued on Wednesday (Feb. 21).
The TAO demanded severe punishment for those involved, seeking an explanation for the family of the deceased and fellow citizens on both sides of the Strait.
The boat had breached Taiwan's maritime boundaries around Kinmen, resulting in a pursuit by Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration (CGA). Beijing accused Taiwan's CGA of acting with "brutal" force.
During the chase, the fishing vessel capsized, killing two.
Upon return to China, the two surviving fishermen blamed the CGA, accusing them of charging their vessel and causing it to overturn.
TAO Spokesperson Zhu Fenglian called for Taiwan to publish the truth promptly in a statement, reprimand related personnel, and explain to the victims' families and citizens from both sides of the Strait.
Zhu stated that this capsizing was not a single incident, criticizing that since the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) took office in May 2016, Taiwan has frequently seized Chinese fishing vessels, causing economic losses and harming the feelings of mainland citizens.
Taiwan's Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) Chairman Kuan Bi-ling stated there is no intention to conceal any aspect of the incident.
She added that multiple points of contact are plausible during a close pursuit, emphasizing that third-party liability insurance has already covered the incident.