Zhonglian Oils' General Manager Released on Bail; Prosecution Submits Appeal Grounds

TAICHUNG, Taiwan — (Central News Agency, reporter Chao Li-Yen, Taichung, 13th) — In the case involving excessive levels of the carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene found in Zhonglian Oils' products, the Taichung District Prosecutors Office has filed an application for pre-trial detention and no-contact order against the company's Yu-surnamed general manager under the Food Safety and Sanitation Act. However, the Taichung District Court ruled on the evening of the 10th to release the defendant on NT$20 million bail, with restrictions on residence, overseas travel, and departure from the country, along with mandatory regular reporting to local police. The prosecution immediately filed an appeal in court.

Today, the Taichung District Prosecutors Office has formally submitted its supplementary appeal grounds to the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office, Taichung Branch.

The investigation into Zhonglian Oils' contaminated oil case has led prosecutors to summon 11 defendants on the 9th, including the Tsai-surnamed chairman, Yu-surnamed general manager, and Chen-surnamed factory director, along with 13 corporate personnel as witnesses for questioning.

Prosecutors argue that the Yu-surnamed general manager poses a substantial risk of evidence tampering, fabrication, or collusion with co-defendants and witnesses, justifying the need for detention. The remaining 10 defendants were released on bail ranging from NT$500,000 to NT$20 million.

This case has drawn significant public attention to food safety standards and corporate accountability in Taiwan's edible oil industry. The appeal is currently under review by the higher court.

(Edited by Huang Ming-Hsi)