Security experts continue to sound the alarm about growing harassment of Taiwanese officials abroad. They believe Chinese agents are testing new ways to intimidate Taiwan’s leadership during overseas visits. A reported incident in the Czech Republic has fueled these concerns. Chinese diplomats allegedly tried to ram Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim’s vehicle during her 2023 trip. Although the exact chain of command remains unclear, officials suspect a deeper strategy behind the move.
A national security source said Chinese embassy staff in Prague may have acted on their own. However, the source noted similar tactics have surfaced elsewhere. In Taiwan, attackers splashed paint on Hong Kong singer Denise Ho during her visit. In another case, assailants used pepper spray on political commentator Lee Cheng-hao. Officials believe Chinese operatives or their local allies organized these attacks. Professor Wang Zhin-sheng from Central Police University said the Prague incident acted as a stress test. China likely wanted to see how much pressure it could apply without provoking international backlash. He emphasized that Beijing intended to scare host nations and prevent future visits by top Taiwanese figures.
The Czech government kept the incident secret for over a year. Wang believes this delay highlights how sensitive such operations have become. He argued that the plot wasn’t a one-off mistake. Instead, it reflected a growing strategy to spread fear and assert dominance. Wang also warned that China could use similar tactics in other democratic nations. He pointed to former President Tsai Ing-wen as a possible target. He added that Chinese authorities often mobilize local diaspora groups to stage protests and disrupt Taiwanese events.
China’s move to threaten a senior official on foreign soil marks a serious escalation. Wang stressed that the operation went far beyond surveillance. He said it aimed to send a deadly message. Experts agree on one point—nations must respond quickly and firmly. Without clear condemnation, harassment of Taiwanese officials will likely increase. Taiwan and its allies must act together to ensure safe diplomatic travel.Wang concluded that the world needs to reject this behavior loudly. Otherwise, harassment of Taiwanese officials could become a dangerous new norm.
