Taiwan University Student's Violent Act: Hidden Knives and Assault at Train Station

A young woman's act of violence at a bustling train station sparks questions about mental health and safety in Taiwan.

In a shocking incident that has raised concerns about public safety, a university student in Taiwan, identified as 蔡 (Cai), was sentenced to 2 years and 8 months in prison for attempted murder. The incident occurred at the Banqiao Station in New Taipei City.

The incident involved 蔡 (Cai), who was found hiding with eight knives inside a large luggage locker at the train station. When a security guard approached during a routine patrol, 蔡 (Cai) attacked the security guard with a knife. The injured security guard called for help, and nearby railway police quickly intervened, subduing 蔡 (Cai).

The court's ruling detailed that 蔡 (Cai), who was experiencing emotional distress, had purchased several knives from different convenience stores in Taoyuan City on April 23, 2023. These included two stainless steel kitchen knives, a watermelon knife, and a chef's knife, in addition to a utility knife, scissors, a folding knife, and a stick knife. She then took a train to Banqiao Station, where she hid in a luggage locker.

The New Taipei District Court found 蔡 (Cai) guilty of attempted murder, resulting in the aforementioned sentence. The case is subject to appeal.