At least three people were killed and nine injured in a rare knife attack at Taipei Main Station, Taiwan, highlighting the city’s typically low violent crime.

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Taipei Knife Attack: At Least Three Dead and Nine Injured in Rare Incident

Attack at Taipei Main Station Shakes City

On Friday evening, a knife attack at Taipei Main Station left at least three people dead and nine others injured, in what has been described as one of the most violent incidents in the capital’s recent history. Authorities say the 27-year-old attacker struck during rush hour at around 17:20 local time, sending waves of panic through one of the city’s busiest hubs.

Witnesses report that the suspect ignited smoke bombs, causing chaos, before wielding a large knife and slashing indiscriminately at bystanders both inside the metro station and the adjacent underground mall, which connects to Zhongshan Station—a popular shopping district.

Details of the Attack

Videos posted to social media capture the frenzied scenes as commuters scramble for safety, while the suspect, dressed in black, advances amidst the confusion. According to reports, one brave bystander attempted to intervene but was fatally injured. The suspect then retrieved another weapon from his nearby hotel before continuing his rampage through connected walkways and into commercial premises.

The situation only ended after police surrounded a department store where the suspect was located. He fell from the building in an apparent escape attempt and died shortly thereafter in hospital.

Suspect and Investigation

Police have identified the attacker as Chang Wen, a local man with a criminal record who was already wanted for previous offenses. Authorities have not yet confirmed his motive. Premier Cho Jung-tai ordered a thorough investigation and called for heightened security at major transport hubs and airports.

President William Lai expressed condolences to the victims’ families and reassured the public that reinforced security measures and a thorough inquiry would follow. The swift response of emergency services likely prevented an even greater loss of life.

Violent Crime in Taiwan: A Rare Occurrence

Violent crime is exceedingly rare in Taiwan, renowned for its public safety and low crime rates. The last notable knife attack in Taipei was in 2014, when a man killed four people on a city train, leading to a national debate on mental health and public security.

According to recent data from the Taiwan Ministry of the Interior, overall violent crime figures in Taipei remain much lower than in similar metropolitan areas around the world. The community is now grappling with shock and grief as residents and authorities seek answers and solutions in the aftermath.

Safety on Public Transit

Commuters generally consider Taipei’s public transit safe. The metro system has a reputation for cleanliness and security, with robust surveillance, quick police response times, and frequent patrols.

For more insights on keeping commuters safe, read our resource on safeguarding public spaces in metropolitan cities.

City and Community Response

In the wake of the Taipei knife attack, city officials have promised to review and strengthen safety protocols in public areas. Mental health support, increased police presence, and improved emergency response procedures are all under consideration.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity. Bystander intervention, as tragically seen in this incident, underscores both the importance of community vigilance and the risks involved.

Further Reading and Updates

For official updates and more detailed coverage, refer to the BBC News original article.