Taiwanese authorities have detained a television journalist and multiple military officers over allegations that sensitive military information was sold to contacts in mainland China, marking a rare and serious case involving both the media and the armed forces in a national security investigation.
The Qiaotou District Prosecutors Office confirmed that a local court approved the detention of a journalist surnamed Lin, along with five current and retired military officers, following an investigation into suspected bribery, corruption, and violations of Taiwan’s national security laws.
Prosecutors allege the journalist paid military personnel cash in exchange for restricted information, which was then passed on to individuals described as being from China. Authorities have not disclosed whether those individuals were linked to the Chinese government or intelligence agencies.
Bribery allegations and coordinated raids
According to prosecutors, the payments allegedly ranged from several thousand to tens of thousands of New Taiwan dollars, equivalent to small but repeated sums designed to obtain information from military insiders. The investigation uncovered suspected violations of laws governing classified information, corruption, and national defense security.
China warns Europe not to admit Taiwanese politicians, citing diplomatic ‘red lines’
On Friday, law enforcement agencies carried out coordinated raids at multiple locations, including the residences of the journalist and several current and former military personnel. In total, premises connected to nine individuals were searched as part of the operation.
Authorities said the raids were conducted to secure documents, electronic devices, and communication records relevant to the case. Officials declined to release further details, citing the sensitivity of the investigation.
Broadcaster responds as case draws attention
Although prosecutors did not initially identify the media outlet involved, CTi TV later confirmed that its reporter Lin Chen-you had been detained. The broadcaster said it was not aware of the full details of the allegations but emphasized its support for legal due process.
CTi TV stated that its offices were not searched during the investigation and stressed that the matter involved an individual employee rather than the organization itself.
Cases involving journalists and alleged espionage are extremely rare in Taiwan, a society that places strong emphasis on press freedom. Legal experts note, however, that journalistic protections do not extend to acts involving bribery or illegal access to state secrets.
China fires YJ-20 hypersonic ‘carrier-killer’ from Type 055 warshipamid Taiwan tensions
Heightened cross-strait security concerns
The case unfolds against the backdrop of rising tensions between Taiwan and China. Beijing claims Taiwan as its territory and has increased military pressure on the island in recent years through drills, airspace incursions, and naval activity.
Taiwanese security agencies have repeatedly warned of foreign infiltration efforts, particularly attempts to recruit active-duty and retired military personnel using financial incentives or personal connections.
Last month, China conducted large-scale military exercises around Taiwan following a US announcement on expanded arms sales to the island, further escalating regional tensions.
Taiwan steps up counter-espionage efforts
Taiwan has intensified its counter-espionage measures in response to growing concerns over information leaks and influence operations. Authorities have expanded monitoring, increased penalties for leaking classified data, and strengthened coordination between prosecutors, military intelligence, and law enforcement agencies.
Officials say this case highlights the evolving nature of security risks, where information gathering can involve civilians, retired personnel, and non-traditional channels.
Pentagon sounds alarm as China elevates Arunachal Pradesh to ‘core interest’ status alongside Taiwan
The Qiaotou District Prosecutors Office said the investigation remains ongoing and that additional questioning may take place as evidence is reviewed.
Under Taiwanese law, convictions related to leaking military secrets or accepting bribes can result in significant prison sentences, depending on the severity of the violations.
