Focus Taiwan
Date: 10/07/20207
By: Matthew Mazzetta

Taipei, Oct. 7 (CNA) A Chinese fishing vessel caught operating in Taiwan's territorial seas around Penghu was escorted into international waters on Wednesday, after being impounded for 44 days and fined NT$2 million (US$69,691), according to the Coast Guard Administration (CGA).

In a press release , the CGA's Penghu Offshore Flotilla said it detained the unmarked vessel and its crew on Aug. 24 after discovering it operating in Taiwanese waters.

Following an investigation, authorities imposed a NT$2 million fine against the vessel's owners for violations of the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area, the Coast Guard said.

On Tuesday, Penghu County Government's Agriculture and Fisheries Bureau removed two net haulers and other fishing equipment from the ship, before it was escorted by the Coast Guard into international waters, the statement said.    [FULL  STORY]