Kaohsiung Temple Chairman Arrested After Clashing with Police Over Fireworks During Procession

A religious procession in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, took a disruptive turn when a temple chairman clashed with police officers. The incident unfolded on Tuesday evening as the procession, organized by a local temple, proceeded along FuYeh Road. Despite having obtained the necessary permits for the route, the event was marred by the setting off of fireworks, which significantly reduced visibility for drivers.

Police intervened to manage the traffic situation caused by the fireworks. However, the temple's chairman, identified as a 43-year-old man surnamed Kao, allegedly became confrontational. Reports indicate that Kao engaged in a physical struggle with an officer and attempted to impede the police's efforts to control the scene and ensure public safety.

To restore order and facilitate traffic flow, police escorted Kao to a nearby police station. The district police chief, Li Ming-ta, addressed the situation, stating that officers repeatedly attempted to communicate with the agitated chairman. When Kao failed to heed their warnings, police proceeded with legal action.

The chairman was cited for violating the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act, which carries a maximum fine of NT$2,400. Furthermore, Kao faces charges related to endangering public safety and obstructing official duties, with the case being transferred to the Kaohsiung District Prosecutor's Office. The temple's actions regarding unauthorized firework displays and resulting air pollution are also under investigation by relevant authorities. Police confirmed that officers were present throughout the procession to provide security and manage traffic.

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Police have repeatedly communicated with the temple personnel, but seeing that they were agitated and did not listen to advice, they finally acted according to the law and took the temple's chairman back to the police station to calm the scene.