2024/10/24
MND Issues Statement on Woman Surnamed Lee Seeking Military Intelligence Through Military Personnel (October 24, 2024)
MND News Report
Date: 12:20, October 24, 2024
On October 24, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) stated that it had received reports from military personnel and national security agencies from October 2023 to March 2024 that a woman surnamed Lee had been trying to establish an espionage network in Taiwan. Under the guise of providing loans, Lee attempted to gather military intelligence by recruiting former and active military personnel. After the Political Warfare Department notified the National Security Bureau, the Criminal Investigation Bureau and the Military Police Command worked closely together to submit the case to the Yilan District Prosecutors Office and successfully cracked the spy ring.
The MND reported that the Yilan District Prosecutors Office had indicted Lee on criminal charges after gathering relevant evidence on October 23, 2024. The Taiwan High Prosecutors Office will conduct investigations into violations regarding the National Security Act. The case is now undergoing judicial procedures, and certain details cannot be disclosed as it is an ongoing judicial investigation.
Faced with China’s constant espionage attempts, the MND stresses that the armed forces must strengthen security by implementing training and security measures. The MND condemns those who betray the nation for monetary gains, declaring that violators will face prosecution. In recent years, many espionage cases were thwarted by reports from other military personnel. In the future, the MND will continue to implement strict security measures to safeguard information while also remaining attentive to any signs of espionage attempts. By enabling national security units to collaborate closely with one another, the MND will be able to enhance its confidentiality and detection capabilities, thereby reinforcing the ROC military’s overall security.