China urges Malaysia to 'fairly investigate' held fishermen

BEIJING (AP) — China on Monday called on Malaysia to “fairly investigate” cases of Chinese fishermen held for allegedly operating illegally in Malaysian waters.

China has sent personnel to visit detained crew members from six boats seized on Friday and provide m with personal protective equipment and or assistance, foreign ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told reporters.

“We have requested that Malaysian side fairly investigate case in accordance with law, protect lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens involved and report progress of investigation in a timely manner,” Zhao said at a daily briefing.

Malaysia is among countries exercising overlapping claims with China to territory and resources in South China Sea and has sought to clamp down on Chinese illegal fishing.

China claims virtually entire strategic waterway, home to rich but overstressed fishing stocks and a potential wealth of mineral resources, as its own.

Malaysian officials said 60 Chinese crew members were arrested for lacking permits and anchoring illegally at two separate locations on Friday morning after a tip-off. y face fines and potential jail terms.