Taiwanese executive challenges trial, seeks constitutional review over jurisdiction

A lawyer representing a high-ranking executive of the太子 Group has requested a halt to an ongoing trial, arguing that Taiwan's courts lack jurisdiction over alleged offshore gambling activities. The defense is also seeking a constitutional review to clarify the extent of Taiwan's judicial power.

The executive, identified as the second-in-command at the太子 Group and head of human resources at its Taiwanese subsidiary Tianxu Company, is accused of recruiting personnel for illegal online gambling operations and money laundering. The group allegedly used shell companies and offshore accounts to launder illicit profits back into Taiwan.

The defense contends that the gambling operations were conducted entirely outside Taiwan, primarily targeting customers in China and Southeast Asia. They argue that Taiwan's assertion of jurisdiction, based on the claim that mainland China is part of Taiwan's "inherent territory," is legally questionable. The lawyer urged the court to stop the trial and requested the constitutional court to examine whether Taiwan's judicial authority can extend to areas beyond its effective governance.

The accused denies all charges, stating she was merely following orders from the group's top leader in Taiwan and was unaware of the illegal nature of the business. She claims her role was limited to human resources and payroll, and that she only managed a virtual wallet for salary distribution and employee benefits.