TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Pro-China influencer Chen Chih-han (陳之漢), also known as Kuan Chang (館長), appeared before the Criminal Investigation Bureau on Tuesday after making a controversial comment about “beheading President Lai Ching-te” (賴清德).

During a recent livestream, Chen was responding to a question about potential tactics by China’s People’s Liberation Army to target Taiwan’s leadership. He commented “beheading Lai Ching-te” and added he was “waiting for you to make the move”, per UDN.

Chen later referenced alleged attacks on his bakery business as part of his growing resentment toward the DPP.

Citing concerns over potential legal violations concerning public threats and incitement to violence, the CIB summoned Chen for questioning. He arrived at the bureau around 2 p.m., then proceeded to the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office at 5 p.m. for additional questioning.

Chen defended his remarks, claiming the government’s investigation was politically motivated, per ETtoday. He insisted he cannot incite the PLA to carry out military action and said his comments were being taken out of context.

The CIB issued a statement urging the public to be cautious when making political statements online, particularly those that could be seen as threatening or inflammatory.

In response to a question about whether the National Security Act could apply in this case, CIB Deputy Commissioner Chen Shyh-huang (陳世煌) said the investigation is focused on possible intimidation and incitement, per ETtoday. He added that additional charges may be considered as the investigation develops.