Man ordered to pay over NT$2.29 million after cleaver attack nearly severs creditor's arm

A dispute over debt repayment escalated violently in Kaohsiung when a man, identified by the surname Wang, attacked a creditor with a cleaver, nearly severing the man's arm. The incident occurred in April 2022 during a debt negotiation involving a third party.

Wang reportedly intervened in the negotiation, deeming the creditor's demand for repayment unreasonable. In a fit of rage, Wang retrieved a cleaver from his car and attacked the creditor, identified as Jiang. The assault resulted in a 15-centimeter cut to Jiang's left arm, severing tendons and causing fractures to bones in his hand and forearm. Jiang also sustained a 20-centimeter cut to his left forearm, with an open fracture of the humerus.

Jiang required extensive medical treatment, including surgery and stitches, and was advised to rest for three months. Medical assessments indicated a 21% reduction in his work capacity due to the severe injuries. Jiang subsequently filed both criminal charges for severe injury and a civil lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, transportation costs, reduced work capacity, and emotional distress, totaling over NT$4.49 million.

The court ruled in favor of Jiang, ordering Wang to pay NT$2.29 million in damages. The court considered the three months Jiang was unable to work and calculated the compensation based on a 21% reduction in his labor capacity. The ruling is subject to appeal.