TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan authorities arrested three suspects by Sunday (Dec. 21) for posting online threats following Friday's random knife attack in downtown Taipei that killed four and injured 11. Draft evader Chang Wen (張文), 27, stabbed passersby before jumping to his death, prompting a nationwide security crackdown. The Ministry of the Interior, Taiwan's internal security agency, identified 20 significant online risk messages related to the attack.
The Internal Affairs Committee of the Legislative Yuan (立法院內政委員會), Taiwan's parliamentary committee responsible for internal security, delivered a special report on public safety on Monday. The Ministry of the Interior reported 137 large-scale events will take place across Taiwan from Saturday (Dec. 21) to the Lunar New Year, Taiwan's most important holiday. Authorities will mobilize 17,295 police and civilian personnel to ensure the safety of attendees at these events.
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) announced enhanced security measures citywide on Monday, prioritizing crowded areas and large events to protect citizens and property. The Songshan Precinct (松山分局), a district police station, of the Taipei City Police Department introduced extensive security measures around the Taipei Arena (台北小巨蛋), a major entertainment venue, on Saturday (Dec. 21). Authorities focus on public transportation hubs and event venues following the deadly attack.
Police arrested a 43-year-old Taichung man Saturday who threatened a terror attack on the Bannan MRT line, a subway line, via social media Friday (Dec. 19). Sanxia Precinct Chief Hsu Tsai-chou (許再周) said authorities would charge the man with intimidation under the Criminal Code despite his claims it was a prank. Police also apprehended a 19-year-old Fu Jen Catholic University student, surnamed Peng, within an hour for posting threatening content on social media platforms.
The Minister of the Interior and the Director General of the National Police Agency, Taiwan's top law enforcement officials, have directed all police agencies to increase visibility and enhance security measures. Authorities prioritize public transportation hubs and campus safety patrols following the attack and subsequent online threats. Police focus on preventing copycat incidents during the holiday season. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$31.5)
