A Chinese patrol ship has been seized by the Philippine Navy after it was found in waters claimed by both countries, according to a report by the Philippine Star. The incident took place on October 10, 2014, in the disputed Spratly Islands, a group of islands in the South China Sea that are claimed by several countries, including China, the Philippines, and Vietnam..
The Philippine Navy said that the Chinese patrol ship, which was identified as the Haijing 310, was found in Philippine waters about 120 nautical miles (222 kilometers) southwest of Palawan Island. The Haijing 310 was reportedly carrying 12 crew members and was on its way to conduct a patrol in the area..
The Philippine Navy said that it seized the Haijing 310 after it failed to respond to a request to identify itself. The Haijing 310 was then escorted to Puerto Princesa, Palawan, where it was turned over to the Philippine Coast Guard..
The Chinese government has protested the seizure of the Haijing 310, saying that the ship was in Chinese waters at the time of its seizure. The Chinese government also said that the Philippine Navy had no right to seize the ship and that it should be returned to China immediately..
The seizure of the Haijing 310 is the latest in a series of incidents that have occurred in the disputed Spratly Islands. In recent months, there have been several confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the area..
The Spratly Islands are located in the South China Sea, which is a vital shipping lane. The islands are believed to be rich in oil and gas reserves, which makes them a valuable prize for the countries that claim them..
The seizure of the Haijing 310 is likely to further escalate tensions between China and the Philippines. It is unclear how the two countries will resolve this latest incident, but it is clear that the dispute over the Spratly Islands is far from over..
