The Philippines has accused Chinese fishermen of dumping cyanide in waters around the Spratly Islands, a fiercely contested area in the South China Sea. Manila described the alleged poisoning as an act of 'sabotage' on Monday, intended to 'kill local fish populations' and deprive Filipino troops stationed at Second Thomas Shoal of a crucial food source. China dismissed the claim as a 'farce.' The allegation follows years of tense stand-offs and occasional violent confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels in the disputed waters. The South China Sea is at the centre of a territorial dispute between China, the Philippines, and other countries.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakin said the accusation was 'completely unbelievable and not even worth refuting.' He added that 'The Philippines has illegally harassed Chinese fishing vessels engaged in normal fishing activities.'
The Philippine National Security Council (NSC) stated that the alleged poisoning began last year around Second Thomas Shoal, which houses a small Philippine military outpost aboard the BRP Sierra Madre, a World War Two-era ship.
NSC assistant director-general Cornelio Valencia explained that cyanide usage aims to 'kill local fish populations, depriving Navy personnel of a vital food source.' He also highlighted the risks posed to health by contaminating the water and fish, which could damage the coral reefs that support the vessel's foundational structure. Manila intends to submit a report to the foreign ministry, possibly leading to a diplomatic protest.
Navy and coastguard units have been ordered to increase patrols in the area. This incident emerges as tensions rise, with ongoing military exercises and territorial disputes between the Philippines and China in the vital shipping route, recognized for its rich fishing grounds.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakin said the accusation was 'completely unbelievable and not even worth refuting.' He added that 'The Philippines has illegally harassed Chinese fishing vessels engaged in normal fishing activities.'
The Philippine National Security Council (NSC) stated that the alleged poisoning began last year around Second Thomas Shoal, which houses a small Philippine military outpost aboard the BRP Sierra Madre, a World War Two-era ship.
NSC assistant director-general Cornelio Valencia explained that cyanide usage aims to 'kill local fish populations, depriving Navy personnel of a vital food source.' He also highlighted the risks posed to health by contaminating the water and fish, which could damage the coral reefs that support the vessel's foundational structure. Manila intends to submit a report to the foreign ministry, possibly leading to a diplomatic protest.
Navy and coastguard units have been ordered to increase patrols in the area. This incident emerges as tensions rise, with ongoing military exercises and territorial disputes between the Philippines and China in the vital shipping route, recognized for its rich fishing grounds.
