Taiwan Coast Guard uses force to repel Chinese research vessel's "illegal" operations

The Taiwanese ship moved in close to create wake interference, and broadcast messages to, "forcefully expel the vessel, prohibiting it from conducting related activities".

The Tongji then retrieved its survey instruments and altered course, departing from Taiwan's waters, the coast guard said.

China's Taiwan Affairs Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Taiwan's coast guard said it continued to shadow the Chinese ship until Monday, when it proceeded away from waters close to the island.

"Chinese research vessels, in disregard of international law, have attempted to conduct illegal survey activities in our waters," it said, calling on China to stop such practices.