China Coast Guard conducts maritime law enforcement drills near Ren'ai Jiao, Xianbin Jiao

(ECNS) -- The China Coast Guard (CCG) has conducted comprehensive maritime law enforcement drills in the waters near China's Ren'ai Jiao and Xianbin Jiao to strengthen its on-site law enforcement and control capabilities.

A formation comprising the CCG vessels Dong'an and Nanxun, along with the Sanzhou'ao patrol boat, took part in the drills, according to a report by China Media Group (CMG).

The drills focused on operations targeting foreign vessels illegally entering the waters near Ren'ai Jiao and Xianbin Jiao, including reconnaissance, tracking and monitoring, navigation route control and tactical maneuvers by small boats, according to the report.

In a simulated scenario, a foreign fishing vessel entered the waters near the two reefs to engage in illegal fishing. Under the formation's command, two law enforcement boats approached the vessel and carried out boarding and inspection operations.

During the inspection, CCG officers found that the vessel had engaged in illegal activities, including the catching of protected aquatic wildlife and the use of electricity, poison and explosives for fishing. After seizing its fishing gear and catch in accordance with the law, the officers issued a warning and escorted the vessel away.

The drills also included individual vessel training in photoelectric evidence collection, water cannon operations and drone operation.

Lin Weicong, a CCG law enforcement officer aboard the Dong'an, said the drills would further enhance the formation's preparedness to respond to foreign infringement-related incidents near Ren'ai Jiao and Xianbin Jiao, as well as strengthen tactical coordination and joint maritime operations.

(By Evelyn)