China: PHL seriously violated our sovereignty and jurisdiction

From Ang Malaya (Nov 26): China: PHL seriously violated our sovereignty and jurisdiction

A day after the conviction of nine Chinese poachers, Chinese government is calling for their release without any condition. A Philippine court, regional trial court in Palawan, decided to impose fine of approximately USD 102,600 fine each for violating Philippine Fisheries Code and Wildlife Resources Conservation Act.

In a media conference, China’s government through its Foreign Ministry said, “The Philippine side has seriously violated China’s sovereignty and jurisdiction” by unlawfully arresting and detaining Chinese fishing boats and fishermen “and now making the so-called judicial decision.”

“China firmly opposes that and urges the Philippine side to unconditionally release the Chinese fishing boat and fishermen,” China added. “China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands (Spratly Islands) and the adjacent waters.”

These Chinese poachers were caught near Half-moon Shoal, approximately 60 nautical miles from west of Palawan – well within 200 nautical miles Exclusive Economic Zone of the country, by Philippine National Police Maritime Group and PNP Region 4-B with possession of over 500 live and dead marine turtles last May this year.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/11/26/6044-china-phl-seriously-violated-our-sovereignty-and-jurisdiction