China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels conducted patrols in the waters near the Kinmen islands on Friday and Saturday, signaling an intent to bolster law enforcement in the region to safeguard the lives and rights of fishermen from both mainland China and the Taiwan region, experts observed.
Analysts attributed this move to the aftermath of a fatal boat incident on February 14 and the perceived mishandling by the secessionist Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities. They anticipate increased protective actions from the Chinese mainland to ensure the safety of its people, placing the DPP in a challenging position.
The Fujian Province branch of the CCG dispatched vessels for law enforcement patrols in the waters near Kinmen, emphasizing the protection of fishermen’s rights and safety, including those from Taiwan. The CCG pledged to intensify its patrols and inspections, expanding both input and patrol areas.
Notably, CCG Ship 2202 and Ship 2203, repurposed from Type 053H2G frigates of the Chinese navy, were involved in the extended patrol. Unlike previous patrols between Xiamen and Kinmen, this time, the focus shifted to the waters between Kinmen and Taiwan island, signaling heightened pressure on the DPP authorities.
Wang Zhenwei, director of the Institute of Politics at Xiamen University, emphasized the CCG’s commitment to safeguarding fishermen’s safety and legitimate enforcement activities in relevant waters. He suggested that continued provocations from the DPP could prompt stronger responses from the mainland.
Residents of Kinmen acknowledged the historical support from CCG vessels and mainland fishermen, expressing disappointment with the handling of the crisis by Taiwan authorities. Concerns were raised about potential tensions between CCG vessels and Taiwan authority vessels, given the escalating situation.
With expectations of increased fishing activities in the region, analysts anticipate a continued presence of CCG vessels. They emphasized the legitimacy of CCG’s law enforcement activities in Chinese waters and warned of challenges for Taiwan coast guard ships if provocations persist.
Echoing previous sentiments, Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, criticized Taiwan authorities for their disregard for human lives and negative attitude following the expulsion of a mainland fishing boat on February 14, which resulted in fatalities.