Chinese crewman shot dead in waters off Palau

Police say they fired at vessel when it didn't stop after being spotted

A crewmember of a Chinese vessel that allegedly poached giant clams off the waters of Palau was shot dead by police after a confrontation on Saturday.

The fisherman died in a hail of bullets designed to stop the Chinese vessel fishing, while five men, all believed to be Chinese, were taken from the burning ship and have been charged with unlawful entry and illegal fishing in Palau waters, according to charges filed by Assistant Attorney General Timothy McGillicuddy.