Taiwan charged the Chinese captain of the Hong Tai 58 in April 2025 over damage to an undersea cable. It was the first case of its kind there.
Key Facts
- Ship: Hong Tai 58, Togo-registered
- Captain: surname Wang
- Cable damaged: February 2025, off south-west Taiwan
- Charges filed in Tainan
- Sentenced: three years jail, 12 June 2025
The Charges
Prosecutors said the captain kept the ship near the cable and damaged it with the anchor. He denied it.
Seven other Chinese crew were not charged and were to be deported.
Update
A Tainan court jailed the captain for three years on 12 June 2025, Reuters reported.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Hong Tai 58?
A ship crewed by Chinese nationals.
What happened to the captain?
He was jailed for three years.
Why do undersea cables matter?
They carry internet and phone traffic.
Conclusion
The case showed how seriously Taiwan takes its cables.
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