Former Secretary Indicted for Leaking Taiwan Official's Japan Itinerary to China

Yunlin County Magistrate Chang Li-shan expressed surprise and called for a thorough investigation after her former secretary, Shih Liang-yen, was indicted for allegedly leaking her Japan visit itinerary to China. Shih is accused of providing details about Chang's June 2024 trip, including flight information, accommodation, and meeting locations, to a Chinese contact through an intermediary.

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I was very surprised when I found out. I hope the judiciary will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.

The Taipei District Prosecutors Office indicted Shih on charges including violating national security laws and leaking secrets. The investigation revealed that Shih had been recruited by a man named Huang Po-wei, who was allegedly working for China. Shih provided the itinerary to a contact identified as Director Mu from the Chinese Communist Party's Central Propaganda Department.

Chang stated that Shih had performed well during her year of employment and speculated that the leak might have been unintentional rather than a deliberate act of selling secrets. She emphasized her respect for the judicial process and urged for justice without wrongful convictions or omissions. The incident has prompted Chang to consider strengthening national security education for county officials, particularly regarding potential violations of security laws when acting without full awareness.

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Shih Liang-yen performed very well during her tenure. After she resigned, I discovered the leakage of the Japan itinerary. I respect the judiciary and hope for a just outcome.

Shih reportedly met with the Chinese contact in Macau between July 23 and 26. The Chinese side offered to cover travel and accommodation expenses for the Macau trip in exchange for the information. The case highlights concerns about potential espionage and the importance of safeguarding sensitive government information.

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I speculate that she may have inadvertently broken the law, not intentionally sold secrets.