Taipei Station assault on HK tourist not random, police say

Taiwan police said the recent sexual assault of a Hong Kong tourist inside Taipei Main Station was not a random attack, as investigations continue into the case that has drawn public attention over safety at the busy transport hub.

The 44-year-old male suspect was arrested after allegedly assaulting the woman, who was found drunk in the station’s main hall last Thursday.

According to the Railway Police Bureau, the suspect had been drinking -- including Kaoliang liquor -- and chatting with the victim and others at the eastern side of the hall before the incident occurred, suggesting the assault was not a chance encounter.

Reports said the victim, who had been staying at a hotel near Taipei Main Station during her visit, met the suspect through casual social interaction in the area. She has since completed her statement with police and returned to Hong Kong.

Following the incident, Taiwan Railways Administration cordoned off the area near the scene and put up signs prohibiting drinking and lying down in the station’s main hall.

After a joint meeting with police, the agency announced several new measures to enhance safety, including increasing police presence and patrol frequency within the station.

Read more: HK tourist sexually assaulted in public at Taipei Station; fugitive suspect arrested