TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Pingtung County Government on Monday (July 19) said the former chief executive of the Cabinet’s Southern Taiwan Joint Services Center, Chen Cheng-wen (陳政聞), was caught violating Level 3 restrictions.

Chen was found eating hot pot and drinking alcohol at Pingtung’s Mudanwan Villa on July 13 in a group of 15, which exceeds the four-person maximum for indoor gatherings under Level 3 restrictions, the Liberty Times reported. The Pingtung County Government has fined Chen, who recently resigned from his position, and the other 14 people NT$100,000 (US$3,560) each.

Chen’s wife, children, and foreign domestic helpers were among those present. Additionally, one person was fined NT$3,000 for not wearing a mask.

Health Minister and CECC head Chen Shih-chung (陳時中) said on Monday that it is "highly likely" the Level 3 alert will be lowered to Level 2 soon. Chen said the loosening of regulations will be carried out "slowly and steadily based on the four principles of gradual progress, proper planning, strengthened prevention, and adaptability."