Taipei Mall Case: Mayor Ko Wen-je Released Without Bail, Peng Chin-sheng Detained, Grassroots Supporters Rally Outside Court
After facing consecutive 5-hour detention hearings, Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je was released without bail by the Taipei District Court, which deemed that the suspicion of his involvement in the Taipei Mall case was not significant. On the other hand, Peng Chin-sheng, the former Deputy Mayor of Taipei, was detained and denied bail due to concerns of collusion and flight risk. This decision led to cheers from the grassroots supporters gathered outside the court, while the Taipei District Prosecutors’ Office announced plans to appeal the decision.
The Taipei Mall case involves allegations against Ko Wen-je, Peng Chin-sheng, and Taipei City Councilor Ying Hsiao-wei for violations of the Anti-Corruption Act, including bribery and profiteering. Following a search of Ko’s residence and his subsequent questioning by the Taipei District Prosecutors’ Office on the 31st of August, both Ko and Peng were detained pending further investigation. The Taipei District Court held a detention hearing on the 1st of September, which lasted until the early hours of the morning. The court ultimately ruled to release Ko without bail, citing the lack of substantial evidence implicating him in the alleged crimes.
In contrast, Peng Chin-sheng was deemed to have significant involvement in the case, with unclear connections to other suspects like Ying Hsiao-wei and Shen Ching-ching. The court expressed concerns about the veracity of Peng’s statements and his potential collaboration with other accomplices, leading to the decision to detain him. The Taipei District Prosecutors’ Office quickly announced its intention to appeal the decision regarding Ko Wen-je.
Outside the court, a group of grassroots supporters gathered to show their solidarity with Ko Wen-je, starting in the morning with chants of “Justice for the process, fairness in justice” and “Believe in innocence, Go Ko P.” Influencer Chen Chi-han, also known as “The Manager,” made appearances throughout the day, providing refreshments and snacks to the supporters. The atmosphere outside the court remained tense as supporters awaited the court’s decision, with some expressing pessimism about Ko’s chances of being released on bail.
However, the mood shifted dramatically around 3:30 AM when news of Ko Wen-je’s release without bail reached the supporters, prompting loud cheers and celebrations. The grassroots supporters had prepared a makeshift support station, complete with supplies and first aid, and had displayed banners along the barricades. Police presence remained high to ensure order and security during the gathering.
Several prominent figures, including legislator Huang Kuo-chang and media personality Mao Chia-ching, criticized the judicial process, accusing it of being politically motivated. They highlighted concerns about illegal searches and leaks of information, with plans to file complaints against the authorities. Huang Kuo-chang reiterated his belief in Ko’s integrity, emphasizing their shared commitment to lawfulness and clean governance during their time working together in the Taipei City government.
The rally outside the court continued through the night, with nearly 500 people showing their support and solidarity. Despite the late hour and the oppressive heat, the supporters remained steadfast in their determination. The decision to release Ko without bail was a significant moment for the grassroots movement, signaling a potential shift in the ongoing legal proceedings.
In conclusion, the Taipei Mall case has sparked intense public interest and debate, with Mayor Ko Wen-je’s release without bail and Peng Chin-sheng’s detention marking a pivotal moment in the investigation. The grassroots supporters’ unwavering dedication and the ongoing legal challenges underscore the complexities of the case and the broader implications for Taipei’s political landscape. As the legal process unfolds, the public will continue to closely monitor the developments and outcomes of this high-profile case.
