China's People's Liberation Army and Coast Guard conducted patrols in territorial waters and adjacent areas around Huangyan Island in the South China Sea on Wednesday.

The PLA Southern Theater Command stated that it had organized combat readiness patrols in the territorial waters, airspace and areas around Huangyan.

Throughout the course of this month, PLA command forces have deployed maritime and aerial patrols in the sea and airspace around the island, further enhancing control measures, the PLA statement added.

The southern command said the patrols were intended as an effective response to various acts of infringement and provocations, and as a firm defense of national sovereignty and security, as well as maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea region.

According to a Coast Guard statement, it has been increasing law-enforcement patrols in the region since early this month.

The statement added that, in accordance with relevant laws, it has regulated vessels engaged in illegal infringement and provocations, further strengthening control over the relevant areas, resolutely safeguarding national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

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