TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's representative to Japan, Frank Hsieh (謝長廷), stated on Monday (July 8) that Taiwan must not tolerate a few non-compliant fishing boats undermining the interests of the broader fishing industry.
Hsieh's comments came after Japanese authorities detained a Taiwanese fishing vessel, Fu Yang No. 266 (福洋266號), on July 5, triggering diplomatic responses.
Hsieh noted that this incident marked Japan's first arrest of a Taiwanese fishing boat in eight years. He explained that Japan typically issues warnings to violating vessels, which are monitored by Taiwan's Fisheries Agency. However, repeated provocations led to the arrest.
Hsieh acknowledged the vessel crossed into disputed waters, where Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration could not intervene due to existing agreements. He mentioned the vessel's captain faced detention and had to post bail immediately to avoid handcuffs.
Highlighting Japan's assistance in over ten emergency rescues annually, regardless of accidents, illnesses, or conflicts at sea, Hsieh emphasized the mutual respect between Taiwan and Japan.
Authorities released the Fu Yang No. 266 captain after he posted bail. Following negotiations, Japan agreed to release the vessel upon receiving a security deposit of about NT$1.21 million.
The vessel owner, Tsai, completed the transfer by the evening, allowing the captain to return to the vessel after signing a guarantee.