Government officials have responded to concerns over the intrusion of a Chinese national into the Tamsui River last Sunday. The man, a former Chinese naval vessel captain, claimed he intended to defect. The incident has led to questions about potential security lapses and possible Chinese Communist Party (CCP) involvement.
National Security Bureau (NSB) Director-General Tsai Ming-yen (蔡明彥) spoke at the Legislature’s Foreign and National Defense Committee on Wednesday. He said that the case has many unresolved issues requiring further investigation. Tsai says authorities will work to understand the man's motives and determine if there was CCP involvement. He says the NSB will work with the Coast Guard Administration (CGA) to enhance maritime and border security, share intelligence, and improve notification mechanisms. He adds that Taiwan will also exchange intelligence with international allies regarding China's gray zone incursions. Tsai says that recent Chinese activities such as the M503 flight route, patrols by Chinese coast guard vessels, and drone operations are part of the CCP’s gray zone strategy against Taiwan.
Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) acknowledged the CGA for their hard work in protecting national security on Wednesday. He says that the recent incursion in the Tamsui River has caused public concern. He adds that the government has the responsibility to alleviate worries and take necessary measures to maintain national security.
According to People’s Daily Online, Chinese authorities also responded to the incident. At a press conference, Beijing’s Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Chen Binhua (陳斌華) called the incident a personal action and criticized Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for politicizing the event. Chen says that upon the man’s return to China, authorities will handle the situation according to established regulations.
