Plant Manager Detained in Carcinogen Oil Scandal

A significant development has occurred in the Zhonglian Oil "benzo(a)pyrene" contamination case, with the plant manager, Chen Ming-rong, being detained and prohibited from meeting or communicating with others. This decision came after prosecutors successfully appealed an earlier decision to grant him bail. The Taichung District Court cited Chen's awareness of the severe food safety risks associated with the oil but his failure to proactively report, halt production, or recall the products.

Court documents reveal that Chen, who oversaw multiple departments including oil processing, storage, and factory affairs, was aware of the contamination as early as May when Taiwan Sugar Corporation (TSC) first flagged the issue. Despite subsequent reminders from subordinates and information relayed through other companies like Nanqiao and Fushou, Chen allegedly did not immediately stop production or initiate a recall. He is accused of participating in meetings to discuss the issue without taking appropriate action until the matter was exposed by a whistleblower.

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Based on the evidence presented by the prosecution, Chen was responsible for six major sections... and was directly under the general manager's command, responsible for the company's food safety-related business.

The court found that Chen, due to his position and involvement, held considerable influence over the company's decisions. His shifting defenses and attempts to deflect responsibility for internal safety warnings raised concerns about potential witness tampering and evidence destruction. Given the gravity of the offense and the ongoing investigation, which includes interviewing more witnesses and clarifying evidence, the court deemed that restricting his residence or granting bail was insufficient to ensure the smooth progress of the investigation. Consequently, he was detained and barred from contact.

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Despite being aware of the situation and the potential impact of the products, he did not proactively report, stop manufacturing, process, sell, or recall the products according to regulations.