Taiwan’s coast guard says it expelled two Chinese fishing vessels from restricted waters near Dongsha Island, also known as Pratas Island, in the South China Sea. According to officials, one vessel refused repeated warnings to leave, prompting the use of a water cannon. The coast guard later towed the boat out of the restricted area after its engine stopped working. Dongsha is administered by Taiwan, but is also claimed by China. Separately, Taipei has appointed a senior naval commander as deputy head of the coast guard as part of efforts to strengthen maritime deterrence against China.