Taiwan president vows full inquiry after deadly Taipei metro attack

Taipei City: Taiwan President Lai Ching-te on Saturday pledged a full public inquiry into a deadly attack at Taipei’s main metro station, describing the incident as a horrific act of violence and promising transparency for the public. The president made the remarks while visiting hospitals where victims of the attack were being treated.

According to authorities, a 27-year-old man triggered smoke bombs inside Taipei’s main metro station during Friday evening’s rush hour before carrying out a stabbing spree. The attack stretched across the central station, an underground shopping area, and another metro stop. Police confirmed that three people were killed and at least 11 others wounded in the incident.

The suspect, who had reportedly been wanted for evading military service, later died in what officials described as an apparent suicide. Taipei’s mayor said the incident appeared to be a deliberate act, though the motive had not been immediately established.

While meeting victims and medical staff, President Lai expressed condolences to those who lost their lives and sympathy to their families. He said he had ordered a full and thorough investigation and assured that authorities would present the complete truth to the public.

Violent crime is considered rare in Taiwan. The last comparable incident occurred in 2014, when a stabbing attack on the metro system left four people dead.