China alleges foreign agencies using 'spy turtles' to monitor waters
What's the story
The Chinese Ministry of State Security has accused foreign intelligence agencies of using marine life, including turtles and fish, to spy on its waters. The ministry said these "spy turtles" are fitted with sensors to collect sensitive ocean data and transmit it overseas via satellite. In a social media post titled "Under the deep blue, undercurrents are surging," they revealed that advanced espionage equipment is being used to steal sensitive ocean data.
Security concerns
Ministry claims foreign groups also use solar-powered wave gliders
The ministry said these creatures are "swimming in a specific area, collecting sensitive data about the marine environment such as water temperature, salinity, and ocean current." This data is then transmitted overseas via satellite. Apart from marine life, foreign groups are also using solar-powered wave gliders, high-precision sensor buoys, and tracking devices on cargo ships to monitor real-time "port dynamics."
Security alert
Ministry calls for stricter inspections of foreign equipment
The ministry did not name any specific foreign agency but explained that this data is used to create "underwater maps." These maps could expose weaknesses in China's coastal defenses, posing a serious threat to national security. The ministry has called for stricter inspections of foreign equipment and urged local fishermen to report suspicious buoys or maritime devices.
Accusations exchanged
Espionage accusations between Beijing and Western governments
This warning comes amid a history of espionage accusations between Beijing and Western governments. Last year, Chinese authorities had warned government employees to be wary of "honeytrap" operations after a foreign agent allegedly targeted a public servant. Meanwhile, the Five Eyes security alliance, involving Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States, revealed this month that Chinese spies have been posing as online job recruiters to collect sensitive information.