Indonesia has sunk dozens of foreign boats within just hours to deter illegal fishing in its waters bordering the highly contended South China Sea, as the country continues to assert its sovereign authority over the area.

As many as 51 foreign boats were sunk by Indonesia authorities as a warning to other nations, Fisheries minister Susi Pudjiastuti said.

The vessels, most of which were bearing Vietnam, Malaysia and China’s flags, will be scuttled at several different locations over the next two weeks, according to Indonesian officials.

Ms Pudjiastuti claimed the use of violence was necessary to avoid further economic losses from lax regulations that gave leeway for foreign boats to fish in Indonesian waters.

The minister said: "There's no other way. This is actually the most beautiful solution for our nation, but yes, it's scary for other countries.

“If we don't act firm, they will be even more daring.

“I believe these collisions will get worse one day, this will escalate.” (Channels TV)