Taiwan spy chief probes gang networks after attack on Xi satirist
Investigators are examining whether Chinese Communist Party direction and funding sit behind local intermediaries.
Taiwan’s intelligence chief is investigating possible Chinese Communist Party links to criminal gangs and private investigators after an attack on a comedian who mocked Xi Jinping, Reuters reported on 22 October.
The inquiry follows indictments against five Taiwanese over an alleged plot to injure Huang Yihao. Prosecutors said a mainland contact known as K offered NT$450,000 to prevent him performing, AP reported.
Prosecutors allege that surveillance preceded the violence: a tracker was attached to Huang’s scooter, and a staged car crash was planned. He escaped serious injury in the 11 September attack. No convictions were reported.
National Security Bureau chief Tsai Ming-yen told parliamentary reporters that identifying possible party direction and funding—and dismantling the networks—was a priority. Those links remain under investigation. He also suggested legal changes.
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office did not immediately answer either news agency’s request for comment. Huang publicly defended his right to criticise the party after the indictments.
The criminal allegations and possible CCP direction remain unproved; article reports indictments and an intelligence inquiry from distinct full Reuters and AP accounts. Primary statements were not obtained.
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