Taiwan considers AI screening at transit hubs after attack

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The head of Taiwan's top law enforcement body announced Monday (Dec. 22) plans to consider AI-powered safety checks at public transportation entrances following Friday's (Dec. 19) random knife attack. The attack at Taipei Main Station (台北車站) and Zhongshan MRT Station (中山站), major subway stops, killed four people and injured 11 others. 

National Police Agency (NPA, 警政署) Director-General Chang Jung-hsin (張榮興) addressed the Legislative Yuan's (立法院) Internal Administration Committee (內政委員會), Taiwan's parliamentary internal security committee, with Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang (劉世芳) present.

Chang outlined plans to use AI technology to detect dangerous items at public transportation entrances as part of enhanced security measures. He debunked rumors that officers claimed they did not receive radio reports about the Friday attack during the response. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) separately revealed considerations for implementing a cell broadcast alert system for similar violent incidents.

Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨), Taiwan's main opposition party, Legislator Chang Chih-lun (張智倫) raised concerns about issuing cell broadcasts for violent incidents similar to natural disaster alerts. Liu explained that cell broadcasts would require precise scientific data to determine target audiences and geographic range, including suspect locations, to avoid unnecessary public panic. Local governments can request assistance from the Executive Yuan's (行政院), Taiwan's cabinet, Office of Disaster Management (ODM, 災防辦) if needed.

Taoyuan City Police deployed the Thunder Squad (霹靂小組), a special police tactical unit, to the Airport MRT to prevent copycat incidents, with rifle-armed officers patrolling carriages and securing critical points. MRT Police intensified patrols across stations following bomb threats, equipping officers with shields, bulletproof vests, and metal detectors. Authorities focus security efforts particularly at Taipei Main Station, the capital's busiest transportation hub.

The Railway Police Bureau (鐵警局), Taiwan's railway law enforcement agency, strengthened joint patrols with local police following Sunday's bomb threat, enhancing station inspections and emergency reporting protocols. Taipei City Police deployed 1,579 officers for safety maintenance, including 320 dedicated to MRT security operations. Mayor Chiang announced upgraded security plans for New Year's Eve celebrations involving special forces and riot control units. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$31.5)