China to 'strengthen' patrols near Taiwan after 2 killed in boat accident

By Anadolu staff

China on Sunday said it would "strengthen" law enforcement patrols in waters near Taiwan days after a boat incident which left two nationals dead.

A Chinese boat with four fishermen on board capsized on Wednesday near the Kinmen islands while being pursued by the Taiwanese coast guard.

The chase led to all four fishermen aboard falling into the sea, two of whom died. Another two are in custody of Taiwanese authorities.

The Chinese coast guard "will strengthen maritime law enforcement in the waters to help maintain the order of maritime operations," a spokesperson said in a statement.

Beijing has condemned Taiwan for the incident, urging the island nation to release the two surviving members of the crew

Rejecting the blame, Taipei said the boat was “within prohibited waters” around the Kinmen islands -- a territory administered by Taiwan but located just 5 kilometers (3 miles) from China’s city of Xiamen.

Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory, whereas Taipei has insisted on its independence since 1949.