The Philippine Coast Guard announced that they have cut the 300-meter-long floating barrier that China had placed around the Scarborough Reef last week to keep Filipino fishing boats away. Philippine Coast Guard Spokesperson Jay Tarriela stated that although they estimate that China may reinstall barriers and take dangerous steps, the Philippines will not step back and will continue their activities at sea. Tarriela stated that any act to prevent Filipino fishermen from fishing in the area violates the international law that granted the area to Filipino fishermen in 2016. China, on the other hand, claims that the reef is under its sovereignty.
Georgios Bartzokis, a Greek national, was detained after filming Turkish Cypriot military facilities without permission in Lefke, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).
Caught on June 27 while recording military housing and installations in Yedidalga, Bartzokis was taken into custody. Police found footage of other sensitive sites, including the Turkish Embassy and the TRNC Assembly.
A court ruled for his 4-day detention, citing the seriousness of the offense and lack of residency. Authorities are also reviewing his digital materials, including a voice recorder and USBs. A social media post labeling the TRNC Assembly as “occupied territory” raised further suspicion.
TR