Professor backs journalist attacked in Taiwan, condemns violence

Senior journalist Yaita Akio faced a physical assault by a Chinese national immediately after concluding a speech in Taichung, Taiwan. The incident, which left Akio bleeding, has drawn widespread attention and condemnation.

In response, visiting US-based professor Chen Shih-fen, known by his pen name Weng Da-rui, publicly declared his unwavering support for Akio. "Regardless of the reason, I stand with Akio and will not be silenced by threats of violence," Chen stated. He questioned the motive behind the attack, suggesting that if it stemmed from orders from above, it was terrifying, but if from personal hatred, it was even more so.

Chen urged solidarity with Akio and a strong denunciation of violence, emphasizing that succumbing to fear or silence would allow such acts to prevail. He also commended the Taiwanese police for their professional and swift apprehension of the suspect, noting the potential damage to Taiwan's reputation if the attacker had escaped.

Taichung police confirmed the suspect, surnamed Liao, stopped his night interrogation due to fatigue but resumed questioning the following morning. Investigators are examining Liao's travel and accommodation history since his arrival on July 2nd, seeking to determine if he received any assistance from individuals within Taiwan. The police intend to recommend to the Taichung District Prosecutors Office that the suspect be detained for further investigation.