Man arrested for factory arson after loan request denied in Taiwan

A man in Taiwan has been arrested and ordered detained for allegedly setting fire to a factory after his request for a loan was refused. The incident occurred in Taibao City, Chiayi County, where the suspect allegedly used insecticide to ignite the blaze.

According to police investigations, the 38-year-old suspect, identified by the surname Chen, visited a factory on the morning of August 5. He reportedly sought to borrow money from the business owner but became resentful when his request was denied. Later that night, around 11 p.m., Chen allegedly returned to the factory and used an insecticide spray to start a fire.

The fire caused the building to ignite, but firefighters were able to extinguish it promptly. The burned area was approximately 2 square meters, and fortunately, no one was injured in the incident. The extent of the property damage is still being assessed.

Following the incident, police reviewed surveillance footage from the surrounding area, which helped them track Chen's movements and gather evidence linking him to the crime. He was arrested at his residence on the morning of August 8. After questioning, Chen was transferred to the Chiayi District Prosecutor's Office on suspicion of violating public safety regulations. Given the severe risk to public safety posed by arson, prosecutors requested his detention, which the court granted.

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We will not tolerate any violent acts that endanger public safety. For crimes that infringe upon the lives, bodies, and property safety of the public, the police will have zero tolerance and will swiftly solve them to ensure social stability.