Prosecutors seek to detain ex-DPP lawmaker over corruption allegations

Taipei, June 4 (CNA) The Taipei District Prosecutors Office has filed a motion to detain former lawmaker Chen Ou-po (陳歐珀), citing strong suspicions of corruption and risk of flight and concerns over collusion or evidence tampering.

Prosecutors made the request after questioning the former ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lawmaker on Tuesday night over his suspected involvement in alleged bribery by a logistics company, United Logistics International Co. (ULIC).

Another nine individuals were also summoned for questioning, with five released on bail ranging from NT$100,000 (US$3,333) to NT$3 million. They included Chen's wife and a representative of ULIC.

The other four were released without bail.

Prosecutors received a tip-off that Chen took a bribe from ULIC during his second term in the Legislature between 2016 and 2020, when he allegedly took advantage of his position to hold meetings, ask questions and propose legislation in favor of the company.

The case originated in 2018, when a cargo ship rammed into ULIC's containers and equipment, causing major damage, according to prosecutors.

The company sought help from Chen because Taiwan's Commercial Port Law did not cover private logistics firms at the time.