Chinese Coast Guard Water Cannons and Cuts Anchor Lines of 20 Filipino Fishing Vessels, Injuring 3 Fishermen

On December 12, Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) vessels watercannoned and cut the anchors of 20 fishing vessels around Escoda Shoal (also known as Sabina Shoal), injuring three Filipino fishermen and damaging two vessels. Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels responding to the incident were also repeatedly blocked by CCG vessels, one of which allegedly approached a PCG vessel within 35 yards. Nonetheless, the PCG was successful in providing medical assistance to the three fishermen who sustained bruises and open wounds from the incident. 

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