Taipei metro horror: 3 dead in smoke bomb, stabbing spree

Taipei: Attacks at metro stations in Taipei on Friday using smoke bombs and stabbings claimed at least three lives, a fire department official reported, noting the suspect also perished.

Taiwan's Premier Cho Jung-tai described the incidents at Taipei Main Station and Zhongshan Station as "a deliberate act", though the motive remained unclear initially.

Cho stated the masked suspect hurled "five or six gasoline bombs or smoke grenades" at Taipei Main Station.

Taipei City Fire Department confirmed four total deaths, including the suspect, with five injuries.

The mayor revealed the suspect seemingly jumped from a building, and one victim died intervening at the Main Station.

"Unfortunately, he was attacked and passed away... we are all deeply saddened," Mayor Chiang Wan-an told reporters.

"Currently, we understand that the suspect committed suicide by jumping from a building to evade arrest and has been confirmed dead," he added.

Cho had earlier reported three cardiac arrests from the assaults, plus multiple stab and blunt trauma wounds.

Authorities boosted security island-wide post-attacks.

"All important locations... including railway stations, highways, subway stations and airports are maintaining a high level of alert and vigilance," Cho informed reporters.

Taiwan's Central News Agency images depicted a canister on the Main Station floor, with officers probing evidence.

A social media video captured dense white smoke blanketing a metro underground area, with people keeping a distance.

President Lai Ching-te vowed that Taiwanese officials would "quickly clarify the details of the case. There will be no leniency, and we will do everything in our power to ensure the safety of our citizens."

Violent crime remains scarce in Taiwan, though a 2014 Taipei metro stabbing rampage shocked the peaceful island, killing four; the perpetrator faced execution in 2016.

With inputs from AP