Image Credit: Taiwan News
Taiwan’s Coast Guard Administration has reported 23 illegal entries from China since June, prompting officials to tighten monitoring efforts with the aid of drones and other advanced technology. Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) Minister Kuan Bi-ling revealed this during a legislative session on Friday, noting that while 21 individuals had been detained, two suspects managed to evade capture.
Kuan informed lawmakers that four incidents had occurred involving Chinese nationals entering Taiwan without proper documentation. Two of the incidents resulted in successful detentions, while the remaining cases saw two individuals escaping. The minister emphasised that enhanced surveillance measures, both at sea and in the air, are being considered, requiring significant financial investment.
The use of drones and uncrewed vehicles is being explored as part of these efforts. Kuan stated that her ministry is collaborating with other government departments to bolster the country’s observation capabilities in response to the rise in illegal entries. She acknowledged that the initiative would come with considerable costs but argued that the move was necessary to safeguard Taiwan’s borders.
Praising the dedication of Coast Guard officers, Kuan described their work as challenging under difficult conditions. However, she assured that appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken in cases where mistakes occurred.
A court on Wednesday sentenced a former Chinese Navy officer to eight months in prison. The man, who entered Taiwan via the Tamsui River in June using a speedboat, managed to go unnoticed due to heavy shipping traffic and the small size of his vessel.
The Coast Guard’s recent actions have intensified public attention on Taiwan’s border security, with further developments expected as discussions on increased monitoring measures continue.