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Prosecutors launch probe regarding submarine programme
The Supreme Prosecutors Office says an investigation has been launched into allegations of interference and information leaks involving Taiwan's indigenous submarine programme. officials say the case is currently being handled by the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office and the Taipei District Prosecutors Office.
Huang Shu-kuang, convener of the Indigenous Defense Submarine program, was recently quoted by local media as accusing an unnamed lawmaker of "continually sabotaging" the construction of the submarine prototype and making it difficult for the government to purchase key parts from foreign suppliers.
In a more explicit accusation, Kuo Hsi, a former arms dealer and advisor to the Navy and a prospective candidate in the upcoming legislative election in Kaohsiung, identified the individual allegedly behind the sabotage and information leaks as KMT Legislator Ma Wen-chun, who is also a member of the Foreign and National Defense Committee.
Ma later filed charges against Kuo for aggravated defamation, with the latter responding by filing the same charges on Monday, while also seeking NT$3 million in damages.
Minister of Justice Tsai Ching-hsiang said prosecutors are looking into the submarine case which he added would be handled in accordance with the law, regardless of party affiliation or status.
