China Boards Philippine Vessels with Bladed Weapons; 8 Sailors Injured

In the most serious incident in the South China Sea in decades, CCG personnel boarded Philippine Navy rigid inflatable boats (RHIBs) with bladed weapons during a BRP Sierra Madre resupply mission. Eight sailors were injured; one lost his right thumb and required rib bone transplant and 18 months' rehabilitation. CCG personnel seized an M16 rifle, ammunition, food rations, and military equipment, and slashed two Philippine RHIBs inoperable. AFP Chief Brawner called it 'an aggressive and illegal use of force.' The US condemned the incident and confirmed MDT applicability.