TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwanese authorities are investigating the seizure of a Taiwanese fishing boat by Chinese coast guards, with National Security Bureau Director Tsai Ming-yen (蔡明彥) describing it as an "uncommon case." The incident occurred near Kinmen when the Penghu-registered vessel Dah Jihn Maan No.88 (大進滿88號) was detained on Tuesday. Tsai stressed the need for vigilance and adherence to local laws when entering sensitive waters.
Tsai announced a comprehensive review to determine if the seizure represents an attempt by China to assert jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait. He questioned the necessity of the seizure and the implications of the Chinese Communist Party's actions, including the potential for a cognitive warfare operation and the management of media aftermath.
Ocean Affairs Council Minister Kuan Bi-ling (管碧玲) also commented on Thursday, urging the Mainland Affairs Council and the Fisheries Agency to negotiate with Chinese authorities for the swift release of the detained boat and crew.
The Legislative Yuan's Foreign and National Defense Committee was set to discuss the incident but was unexpectedly adjourned by Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Wang Ting-yu (王定宇), leading to frustration among Kuomintang (KMT) legislators.
KMT Legislators Lo Chih-chiang (羅智強) and Hung Meng-kai (洪孟楷) voiced their dissatisfaction with the abrupt pause, which also left attending officials, including Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau Director General Michael Chen (陳白立) and Tsai, surprised.