Philippine sailor hurt in South China Sea confrontation
Al Jazeera reported that a Chinese coast guard member is accused of striking a Philippine sailor during a disputed encounter at sea.
By Lucas Ferreira · Science & Environment Writer
1 min read
A Philippine sailor was injured during a confrontation with China’s coast guard in contested South China Sea waters, according to Al Jazeera. The incident adds to tensions between Manila and Beijing over maritime areas claimed by both sides.
Al Jazeera reported that a member of China’s coast guard is accused of hitting the Philippine sailor with a wooden baton during the encounter. The report did not identify the sailor or give further details on the extent of the injury.
Both sides have disputed what happened, according to Al Jazeera. The competing accounts are expected to be raised in high-level talks in Manila this week.
The South China Sea dispute has remained a central point of friction between the Philippines and China. Al Jazeera described the incident as occurring in waters whose control is contested.
No further details were provided on the location of the encounter, the number of personnel involved or any official response from the governments beyond the reported disagreement over the incident.
This story draws on original reporting from Al Jazeera.