Investigators call for coastguard to face charges
Philippine president to consider criminal action over deadly clash with Taiwanese fishing boat
Philippine investigators said yesterday they had recommended criminal charges be filed against coastguards involved in the fatal shooting of a Taiwanese fisherman in disputed waters.
The announcement follows weeks of high tensions between Taiwan and the Philippines, after coastguard chiefs in Manila initially insisted the fishing vessel had tried to ram the coastguard boat and their personnel had fired in self-defence.
"The NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) has recommended the filing of criminal and administrative charges against the Philippine coastguard personnel," Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said.
De Lima said she could not disclose the specific charges pending clearance from President Benigno Aquino, whose office is reviewing the recommendation and will decide what action to take.
The May 9 incident occurred in waters near a Philippine island that Taiwan also claims as part of its economic zone.
A 65-year-old Taiwanese fishermen was killed when the Philippine coastguard opened fire on the vessel he was crewing with his son and two others.
The Philippine coastguard said initially the fishing boat intruded into its waters, and its personnel were forced to open fire when it tried to ram their vessel.