Taiwan’s High Court has sentenced retired lieutenant general Kao An-kuo and five co-conspirators for attempting to form an espionage network for the Chinese Communist Party. Consequently, the Taiwan espionage case marks one of the most serious security breaches in the nation’s recent history.
Kao, 81, received seven years and six months for violating the National Security Act. Notably, he is the highest-ranking military officer in Taiwan’s history to be convicted of espionage. Prosecutors said Kao tried to organize an armed group called the “Republic of China Taiwan Military Government.” In addition, the group would have assisted invading Chinese forces and acted as internal collaborators.
The defendants also planned to launch comprehensive attacks on government institutions if the Chinese People’s Liberation Army imposed a blockade or invasion. Furthermore, prosecutors added that the group sought to create a provisional government to achieve “unification.” Nevertheless, Kao denied all charges during the trial.
His partner, Liu Yi-chen, received six years and six months. Meanwhile, four others received sentences ranging from two years and six months to six years. In contrast, codefendant Hou Shao-kang, who successfully developed an organization, was sentenced to six years. The other four failed to form an organization of at least three members, leading to charges of attempting to develop one.
Authorities also confiscated NT$9.62 million (US$312,454) in illegal gains from the six defendants. Moreover, High Court spokesperson Wen Chia-chien emphasized that all defendants knew China threatens Taiwan’s democratic order through military, intelligence, and “united front” tactics.
Legal experts noted that the Taiwan espionage case underscores growing concerns over internal security amid rising cross-strait tensions. Consequently, security analysts said Taiwan must continue strengthening counterintelligence measures within its military and civil sectors.
Moving forward, the government will likely implement stricter monitoring of active-duty and retired military personnel. Additionally, officials warned that similar espionage attempts could face severe consequences under Taiwan’s National Security Act.
Overall, the verdict demonstrates Taiwan’s commitment to protecting national sovereignty and deterring foreign influence. Finally, experts said the Taiwan espionage case serves as a warning to those considering acts against the country’s security.
