China confirms two deaths in Scarborough Shoal collision during Philippine ship chase
Chinese state media honoured two coast guard personnel who died in a vessel collision in the South China Sea last year, marking the first official confirmation that the incident resulted in fatalities. The collision occurred during the pursuit of a Philippine vessel.
China's People's Armed Police posthumously honoured two coast guard officers who died in a vessel collision in the South China Sea last year, according to state media. The recognition marks the first official confirmation that the incident resulted in fatalities.
The collision took place during what Chinese authorities described as a 'maritime rights' operation, in which coast guard vessels were pursuing a Philippine ship. The waters around Scarborough Shoal have long been the subject of a sovereignty dispute between the two countries.
The episode is being viewed as another sign of heightened tension in the area. The Philippines has not yet issued an official statement on the incident.
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