On January 7, 2025, a Hong Kong-owned, Cameroon-flagged cargo ship, Shunxing 39, was apprehended by the Taiwanese Coast Guard after it was discovered cutting an undersea communications cable off the northern coast of Taiwan. The incident, which occurred after the vessel had been operating in the area for two weeks, raised alarms regarding the security of vital communication infrastructure.
The Taiwanese authorities conducted a nine-hour search before apprehending the ship, although adverse weather conditions hindered immediate boarding. Initial investigations revealed that several crew members were Chinese nationals. The vessel was subsequently released and is now en route to South Korea.
Officials from Taiwan's digital ministry expressed skepticism regarding the possibility of the incident being accidental, emphasizing the complex sequence of actions required to inadvertently sever a cable. This incident has been linked to broader patterns of intimidation by Beijing towards Taiwan, aiming to disrupt its communications and assert dominance.
The Shunxing 39's actions underscore the vulnerability of undersea cables, which are crucial for global internet connectivity. Recent similar incidents in the Baltic Sea, allegedly involving Chinese vessels, further highlight the risks posed to these critical infrastructures. In response, Taiwan is considering alternative communication strategies, including satellite and microwave technologies, to mitigate potential disruptions.