TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The National Chung Shan Institute of Science and Technology said it recently detected abnormal data duplication.

Following a preliminary probe, the case was referred to the Military Police Command on Aug. 14 and reported to prosecutors, Military News Agency reported. NCSIST said the leaked information included trade secrets contained in tender documents.

During the open bidding process, vendors may apply to review these documents. However, NCSIST said it suspects an internal employee provided the information to specific parties for profit. The institute said it will handle the matter in accordance with the law.

NCSIST stressed the breach was proactively uncovered by its internal security system and is now under judicial investigation. It rejected claims the defense ministry was “turning a blind eye.”

The institute pledged to safeguard its rights and ensure the most severe punishment for those involved.