Hsinchu village chief candidate investigated for election bribery

A village chief candidate in Wufeng Township, Hsinchu County, is under investigation for allegedly attempting to bribe an opponent to withdraw from the election. The Hsinchu District Prosecutors Office reported that the suspect, identified by the surname Yu, allegedly offered money or other improper benefits to a rival candidate, surnamed Huang, to secure an easier path to victory.

According to investigators, Yu specifically requested 400,000 TWD on September 3 to withdraw from the race, claiming the funds would compensate for campaign expenses. The Hsinchu District Prosecutors Office determined that Yu's actions likely violate Article 97 of the Public Officials Election and Recall Act.

Following questioning and the seizure of a mobile phone, prosecutors released Yu on 50,000 TWD bail. While the prosecution noted the severity of the suspected crime, they determined detention was unnecessary as three witnesses had already provided clear testimony. The prosecutors' office issued a statement emphasizing that democratic elections should not involve financial transactions and urged the public to report any election-related illegalities.