TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Influencer Chen Chih-han (陳之漢), also known as Kuan Chang (館長), was released on NT$150,000 (US$4,900) bail on Wednesday after being questioned by prosecutors over his beheading Lai comment during an Oct. 5 livestream.
After making a statement at the Criminal Investigation Bureau, Chen arrived at the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office for further questioning, per CNA. Before entering, he told reporters that, “This might be the fastest case ever handled in Taiwan,” adding that he had just finished at the CIB when officials handed him a summons.
Chen claimed the case was straightforward and denied making any threats, saying he was merely responding to a question during the livestream. He denied inciting others to commit crimes, saying, “I don't have the power to order the PLA to take action.”
He said he believed he was protecting Taiwan, yet now he is being investigated, while senior officials who create divisions in the country face no consequences.
After about 20 minutes of questioning, prosecutors determined Chen was suspected of breaching Article 153 of the Criminal Code for inciting others to commit a crime and Article 305 for threatening and endangering public safety. He was then ordered to post bail of NT$150,000.
Following his release, Chen said prosecutors were very kind, but he sensed pressure from the DPP. He said he was baffled that just saying a few words would lead to the bail process and mentioned that he had been briefly detained during questioning.
He added that since he was not barred from leaving the country, he would continue going to China to livestream and do business.
The Criminal Investigation Bureau urged the public to carefully evaluate and verify the authenticity and legality of any online content before posting it, per CNA. It warned individuals to avoid sharing or imitating any content that breaks the law.
“True freedom of speech is based on the rule of law, and any illegal behavior will incur corresponding legal consequences,” said the bureau.
