Introduction: Taiwan’s National Police Agency (NPA) has reassured the public that safety will be ensured for those attending screenings of the controversial documentary State Organs (國有器官) after 30 bomb threat reports were received targeting entities planning to show the film. The film, which delves into allegations of state-sanctioned organ harvesting in China, has sparked concerns regarding the safety of theaters and organizations involved in its screening.
Police Response to Threats
Following a series of threats made against various venues scheduled to screen State Organs, Taiwan’s National Police Agency has committed to implementing preventive measures to protect the public. At a legislative hearing on Wednesday, National Security Bureau (NSB) Deputy Director-General Chang Yuan-pin confirmed that these threats had been made via virtual private networks (VPNs), and they targeted entities such as the Ministry of Culture, local councils in Changhua and Kaohsiung, as well as multiple theaters in Taipei and Taoyuan.
The threats, which included bomb warnings, led some theaters to reconsider their decision to screen the documentary. However, authorities have assured that screenings will continue in a secure manner.
Safety Assurance from Law Enforcement
Deputy Director-General of the NPA, Lee Cheng-hsiao, confirmed that the police are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of citizens attending these screenings. “Of course, we will gather intelligence and take preventive measures,” said Lee during the legislative session.
Furthermore, Deputy Cultural Minister Sue Wang clarified that while some screenings have been transformed into private events with enhanced security measures, six theaters across Taiwan are still going ahead with their screenings as scheduled.
Impact on Public and Cultural Entities
Although some screenings were adjusted due to security concerns, the Ministry of Culture reassured that the documentary would not be banned. The government is committed to upholding freedom of expression, while also ensuring public safety in the face of escalating threats.
Legislator Wang Ting-yu, a member of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), urged that the public should not succumb to fear. “People should not have to give in to fear,” Wang said, emphasizing the importance of continuing the screenings to raise awareness of human rights violations.
Table of Affected Entities
| Entity | Threat Type | Action Taken |
|---|---|---|
| Ministry of Culture | Bomb threat via VPN | Increased security for screenings |
| Changhua County Council | Bomb threat via VPN | No cancellations, private events held |
| Kaohsiung City Council | Bomb threat via VPN | Private screenings |
| Theaters in Taipei & Taoyuan | Bomb threat via VPN | Continued screenings with extra security |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why were there bomb threats against the screenings of State Organs?
A1: The threats were allegedly made due to the documentary’s focus on state-sanctioned organ harvesting in China, a highly sensitive issue that has sparked international debate.
Q2: What is the government’s stance on the documentary?
A2: The Taiwanese government has reaffirmed its commitment to freedom of expression and will allow screenings of the documentary with enhanced security measures in place.
Q3: Are the screenings still happening in Taiwan?
A3: Yes, screenings will continue, with six theaters moving forward with the film as scheduled, while other screenings have been modified into private events for added security.
Q4: How is the police ensuring safety for attendees?
A4: The NPA is gathering intelligence and deploying preventive measures to secure the venues where the documentary is being shown.
Q5: What steps are being taken to prevent further threats?
A5: The National Security Bureau and local law enforcement are actively investigating the threats and ensuring appropriate security protocols are followed.
