Image credits - The Straits Times
Taiwan’s High Court has convicted eight individuals, including both active-duty and retired military personnel, of espionage charges for allegedly collecting state secrets on behalf of China. This case is one of the largest espionage scandals Taiwan has faced in recent years. The verdict, delivered on August 22, resulted in prison sentences ranging from 1½ to 13 years. The ruling is subject to appeal.
According to the official Central News Agency, the Ministry of Justice’s Investigation Bureau revealed that the convicted individuals were recruited by the Communist Party of China to gather sensitive information, including military intelligence. The investigation also uncovered that Beijing used virtual currency for payments to the accused. The case has exposed Taiwan’s concerns about Beijing’s attempts to infiltrate its military. Prosecutors accused the defendants of forming a spy ring for China and alleged that some were involved in filming a video pledging surrender to China’s military, which was perceived as part of Beijing’s psychological warfare strategy.
Several of the accused denied the charges, with one individual previously indicted found innocent and another still at large. The Defense Ministry of Taiwan emphasized its commitment to conducting thorough and confidential investigations to prevent further espionage and safeguard national security.
This espionage case comes amid heightened tensions between Taiwan and China. Beijing continues to claim Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to reunify the island with the mainland. Taiwan, with significant support from the US—its largest military ally—has expressed ongoing concerns about China’s spying activities and their implications for national security.
In response to the verdict, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to stringent security measures and ongoing vigilance against espionage threats.