The Philippine military chief has demanded that China return several rifles and equipment seized by the Chinese coast guard in a disputed shoal in the South China Sea. The incident occurred at Second Thomas Shoal, which is claimed by both the Philippines and Beijing.
According to Philippine officials, Chinese personnel on board more than eight motorboats rammed and boarded two Philippine navy inflatable boats on Monday. The Chinese prevented the transfer of food, supplies, and firearms to a Philippine territorial outpost. During the altercation, the Chinese seized the boats, damaged them with machetes, knives, and hammers, and took eight M4 rifles, navigation equipment, and other supplies. Several Filipino navy personnel were wounded, with one losing his right thumb.
