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WESCOM Commander Recalls Water Cannon Attack By China Coast Guard
Photo credit: PCG
In a dramatic turn of events, Western Command (WESCOM) Commander Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos found himself at the center of a maritime clash as the resupply vessel Unaizah May 4, carrying personnel on a Routine Resupply (RoRe) mission to Ayungin Shoal, was targeted by water cannon fire from China Coast Guard ships on March 5.
During the incident, Vice Admiral Carlos sustained minor wounds on his fingers, while a crew member on board the Unaizah May 4 suffered a deep cut on his arm, requiring stitches for proper medical attention.
Contrary to initial assumptions, Vice Admiral Carlos clarified that the Unaizah May 4, specifically its UM-4 module, was not carrying any supplies during its maiden voyage to Ayungin Shoal. Instead, the mission primarily focused on testing the vessel's capability to navigate through the sensitive waters surrounding Ayungin Shoal.
The encounter underscores the escalating tensions in the South China Sea and the strategic significance of Ayungin Shoal, a contested area with competing territorial claims. The use of water cannons by the China Coast Guard raises concerns about the safety and security of naval operations in the region.
The Western Command is expected to address the incident through diplomatic channels, emphasizing the peaceful and routine nature of the mission while urging all parties to exercise restraint and adhere to international maritime laws.
The incident adds to the ongoing geopolitical complexities in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes continue to be a source of friction among nations in the region.
During the incident, Vice Admiral Carlos sustained minor wounds on his fingers, while a crew member on board the Unaizah May 4 suffered a deep cut on his arm, requiring stitches for proper medical attention.
Contrary to initial assumptions, Vice Admiral Carlos clarified that the Unaizah May 4, specifically its UM-4 module, was not carrying any supplies during its maiden voyage to Ayungin Shoal. Instead, the mission primarily focused on testing the vessel's capability to navigate through the sensitive waters surrounding Ayungin Shoal.
The encounter underscores the escalating tensions in the South China Sea and the strategic significance of Ayungin Shoal, a contested area with competing territorial claims. The use of water cannons by the China Coast Guard raises concerns about the safety and security of naval operations in the region.
The Western Command is expected to address the incident through diplomatic channels, emphasizing the peaceful and routine nature of the mission while urging all parties to exercise restraint and adhere to international maritime laws.
The incident adds to the ongoing geopolitical complexities in the South China Sea, where territorial disputes continue to be a source of friction among nations in the region.
Mar 6, 2024
