Taoyuan councilor, agricultural bureau official detained for alleged bribery in illegal construction case

Taoyuan City Councilor Chang Chao-liang and Gao Ming-pasang, a section chief in the city's agricultural bureau, have been detained on suspicion of accepting bribes. The investigation centers on allegations that they facilitated illegal warehouse construction on agricultural land and interfered with official inspections.

Prosecutors accuse Chang, who has served as both a city government consultant and a current city councilor, of accepting bribes between 2021 and 2023. The bribes were allegedly paid by businesses seeking to build warehouses illegally on land zoned for agriculture. Chang is also accused of lobbying Gao, then the section chief responsible for agricultural land management, to prevent the illegal structures from being reported and demolished.

Following searches of residences and offices, both Chang and Gao were arrested and subsequently ordered detained pending investigation by a court. The court cited concerns about potential evidence tampering, collusion among co-defendants or witnesses, and a flight risk, given the severity of the charges which carry a minimum five-year prison sentence.

While Chang denies the allegations, prosecutors point to witness testimonies and digital evidence, including phone records. Gao has admitted to some wrongdoing but denies corrupt intent, offering explanations such as forgetfulness. The court noted that Chang, with his influence in the agricultural bureau, could potentially interfere with the investigation. The ongoing probe aims to uncover any other public officials potentially involved.