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Mystery Structure Appears, Vanishes at Disputed Shoal
4 Jun
Summary
- Satellite images showed a possible floating structure at Scarborough Shoal.
- The object was visible on multiple dates in late May.
- Later images from June 1 indicated the structure was no longer present.
Satellite imagery obtained in late May revealed a possible floating structure at the entrance of the disputed Scarborough Shoal. Analysts identified what might have been a raft or buoy, alongside a barrier across the atoll's opening in images dated May 27 and 29. This discovery was reported on June 1, with the Philippines initiating an investigation into the presence of the structure.
However, subsequent satellite images taken on June 1 indicated that the suspected structure had disappeared. This development adds another layer to the ongoing friction over Scarborough Shoal, which China has controlled since 2012. The shoal remains one of the most contested maritime sites in Asia, with frequent clashes occurring between Chinese coast guard vessels and Philippine fishermen.
