Taiwan Reports Sharp Increase in Chinese Espionage Cases

Taiwan's National Security Bureau reveals a threefold rise in espionage prosecutions linked to China's intensified intelligence operations.

Taiwan prosecuted 64 individuals for suspected Chinese espionage in 2024, a significant increase from 16 cases in 2021.
Two-thirds of those charged were current or retired military personnel, highlighting the military as a primary target for infiltration.
Chinese intelligence operations reportedly involve criminal gangs, religious groups, and shell companies to recruit informants and launder funds.
Some espionage schemes included efforts to gather coordinates of foreign offices, form sniper teams, and plan sabotage in the event of a Chinese invasion.
Taiwan attributes the rise in cases to enhanced counter-intelligence efforts and China's escalating use of 'gray zone' tactics, such as cyberattacks and propaganda campaigns.