Taiwan Investigates Navy Vessel Collision with Chinese Fishing Boat

Tensions Rise as Taiwan Probes Incident in Waters Off Central Coast

Taipei, April 4 - The Taiwanese Navy is actively investigating a March 27th collision involving one of its vessels and a Chinese fishing boat in waters off central Taiwan. The incident has sparked scrutiny and heightened attention to cross-strait relations.

In an official statement, Taiwan's Naval Fleet Command confirmed that they are collaborating with the Coast Guard Administration (CGA) to determine responsibility for the collision. Further actions will be taken in accordance with established cross-strait negotiation mechanisms and relevant procedures.

The collision occurred on March 27th at 12:38 a.m. approximately 45 nautical miles from the Port of Taichung. The Taiwanese vessel involved was a Chung Ho-class tank landing ship, identified by hull number LST-232, and it collided with the Chinese-registered fishing boat "Min Lien Yu 61756".

The Taiwanese Navy reported that their vessel sustained unspecified damage; however, navigational safety was not compromised. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries on either vessel during the incident.

Following the collision, the CGA dispatched two patrol vessels to the scene to manage the situation and gather evidence for the ongoing investigation, as stated by the Navy.

Meanwhile, China's Taiwan Affairs Office has issued a demand for Taiwan to provide compensation to the Chinese fishermen for their losses, further complicating the situation.