Taipei Court Sentences Bed-and-Breakfast Owner for Shotgun Attack on MODA
A man who carried out a violent protest against Taiwan’s government policies on Chinese tourism by attacking the Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA) in Taipei was sentenced to four years and 10 months in prison on Monday. The incident occurred earlier this year when the defendant, Chang (張), used a shotgun to target the MODA building, citing his opposition to the government’s stance on restricting Chinese tourists to Taiwan.
In addition to the prison sentence, the Taipei District Court ordered Chang to pay a NT$80,000 (US$2,453) fine and NT$100,000 in compensation to the Ministry of Digital Affairs for damages caused during the attack.
Details of the Attack
According to prosecutors, Chang, a bed-and-breakfast owner from Nantou County, entered the MODA’s headquarters in Zhongzheng District on March 28 at around 8 a.m. armed with a shotgun. Upon entering the lobby, Chang fired two shots. He then attempted to access the main office on the second floor but was prevented from doing so after staff secured a door.
Returning to the ground floor, Chang fired a shot at the building’s main entrance, causing significant damage to a glass door. Afterward, he dropped his weapon, raised his arms in surrender, and began shouting protest slogans against the government’s policies on Chinese tourism.
Background of the Attack: Chang’s Grievances and Planning
Chang’s protest was driven by his frustration with the Taiwan government’s restrictions on Chinese tourism, which he viewed as detrimental to his business and the local economy. On March 27, Chang contacted several relatives, friends, and reporters, informing them of his planned actions. He also visited the MODA office the day before the attack to survey the building.
Prosecutors revealed that Chang had purchased the shotgun, a modified pistol, and several rounds of ammunition from an individual named “Ali” in Puli Township for NT$270,000 in 2020. Chang then kept the weapons hidden in his bed-and-breakfast, awaiting the opportunity to carry out his protest.
Legal Consequences and Charges
Chang was indicted in July 2024 by the Taipei District Prosecutors Office for multiple offenses, including:
- Illegal possession of firearms and ammunition
- Shooting in public spaces with standard guns
- Criminal intimidation
These charges were filed under the Firearms, Ammunition, and Knives Control Act and the Criminal Code of Taiwan. The court’s decision on his sentence can be appealed, but the significant prison term and fines reflect the severity of his actions.
Table: Key Information on the Case
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant’s Name | Chang (張) |
| Sentence | 58 months in prison |
| Fine | NT$80,000 (US$2,453) |
| Compensation to MODA | NT$100,000 |
| Location of Attack | Ministry of Digital Affairs, Taipei |
| Date of Attack | March 28, 2024 |
| Weapons Used | Shotgun, modified pistol |
| Prosecutors’ Charges | Illegal firearms possession, public shooting, criminal intimidation |
| Legal Basis | Firearms, Ammunition, and Knives Control Act, Criminal Code |
Impact on Taiwan’s Policy Debate and Public Sentiment
The attack has sparked further discussions around Taiwan’s tourism policies, especially concerning the balance between welcoming international visitors and managing the potential security risks associated with Chinese tourism. Critics of the government’s policies argue that tighter restrictions harm businesses reliant on Chinese tourists, while others support measures aimed at ensuring national security.
This incident also brings attention to the issue of firearm control and the accessibility of weapons, as Chang had legally acquired his firearms in 2020. While Taiwan’s laws are generally strict regarding firearms, the availability of illegal channels for weapons remains a concern.
FAQs: Man Who Shot Up MODA Sentenced to 58 Months
- Why did Chang attack the Ministry of Digital Affairs?
- Chang was protesting Taiwan’s government restrictions on Chinese tourism, which he believed harmed his bed-and-breakfast business.
- What were the consequences of the attack?
- Chang was sentenced to 58 months in prison, fined NT$80,000, and ordered to pay NT$100,000 in compensation to the Ministry of Digital Affairs.
- How did Chang plan the attack?
- Chang planned the attack for several months, purchasing firearms and ammunition in 2020 and conducting a site survey of the MODA office before carrying out the assault.
- What charges did Chang face?
- Chang faced charges including illegal possession of firearms, shooting in public places, and criminal intimidation under Taiwan’s laws.
- Can Chang appeal his sentence?
- Yes, Chang’s sentence is subject to appeal.
