Taipei, Taiwan – Taiwanese authorities have ruled out terrorism as a motive in the recent attack on the Taipei Metro that left three dead and eleven injured. Criminal Investigation Bureau officials stated initial findings suggest the incident was not driven by terrorist intentions.
According to a police statement released Sunday, the 27-year-old male suspect did not express any political, religious, or ideological views that would indicate a terror-related motive. “Terrorist acts are subject to specific definitions, and these criteria do not apply to the suspect’s behavior,” the statement read, based on the ongoing investigation.
President Lai Ching-te pledged a thorough investigation into the attack, the motives of which remain unclear. Visiting victims in the hospital Saturday, President Lai promised transparency in the investigation and expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, stating he was deeply saddened by those who “tragically lost their lives in the horrific and violent attack.” He has ordered a “full and comprehensive” investigation to provide the public with a complete account of the events.
Police report the attacker, a resident of Taiwan, acted alone. The incident began when the suspect detonated smoke bombs at a major Taipei Metro station during rush hour before attacking passengers with a knife, according to authorities.
Premier Cho Jung-tai stated the suspect had a prior criminal record and outstanding warrants. He revealed that the suspect’s residence had been previously searched.
The Mayor of Taipei announced in a press conference that the suspect, wanted for evading military service, reportedly died by suicide after falling from a building while being pursued by police.
Officials have described the incident as a “deliberate act,” but the attacker’s motive remains under investigation.
DZWatch will continue to provide updates as this story develops.
