Yaita Akio Attacked; Police Agency Vows to Pursue Local Collaborators

(Central News Agency, Reporter Huang Li-wen, Taipei, July 6) Yaita Akio, CEO of the Indo-Pacific Strategy Think Tank, was punched by an unidentified assailant today while serving as a lecturer in Taichung. The Police Agency stated this evening that the suspect, who attempted to flee the country, has been apprehended in a timely manner. Subsequent investigations will continue to determine if cross-border suppression is involved and will fully pursue local collaborators.

The Ministry of the Interior's Police Agency issued a press release this evening stating that following the incident, the Taichung City Police Bureau, in conjunction with the Airport Police Bureau and the Ministry of the Interior's Immigration Agency, conducted an immediate and thorough investigation. Within four hours, the suspect, who planned to flee the country, was apprehended at the airport.

The Police Agency said that subsequent investigations will continue to clarify the motive, the circumstances of the crime, and whether it involves foreign forces or cross-border suppression, and that local collaborators will be fully pursued.

The Police Agency emphasized that Taiwan is a democratic and law-abiding country, and the personal safety and freedom of speech of its people are protected by law. For any acts that endanger public order or infringe upon the rights and interests of the people through violence, intimidation, or other illegal means, the police will adhere to the principles of lawful administration, strict enforcement, and zero tolerance for violence, investigating and holding those responsible accountable according to the law.

Furthermore, the Police Agency sternly urges the public not to become "local collaborators" for hostile foreign forces. Anyone who is instructed, enticed, or coerced into collecting, transmitting, assisting in surveillance, or engaging in other acts that endanger the safety of relevant organizations or individuals and social order will be acting illegally. The police will investigate and prosecute according to the law, with no leniency. (Editor: Chen Cheng-chien) 1150706

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