China places coast guard under Central Military Commission

State-run news agency Xihuaa reported that the marine police force under the Chinese People’s Armed Police Force will serve as a law enforcement agency and safeguard the maritime rights of the country.

The coast guard will be responsible for combating criminal maritime activities; undertaking search and rescue, law enforcement, environmental protection and fishery management.

A few weeks ago, this decision was approved by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, which is the country top legislature.

As per the new requirement, the coast guard will undertake military drills with the People’s Liberation Army.

Further, the coast guard ships would be equipped with robust cannons and its personnel would carry firearms.

Military expert Song Shongping told Global Times that the country’s coast guard would safeguard its sovereignty and maritime rights.

In May, the Chinese coast guard conducted joint drills along with the navy in the South China Sea.

The move to place the coast guard under Central Military Commission is seen as a threat by other countries.