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

A Hong Kong female tourist was allegedly sexually assaulted after passing out at Taipei Main Station last Thursday (Oct 9). The victim has completed her formal statement, which will serve as key evidence in the case, and the suspect has been detained for further questioning.

According to Taiwanese media, the 44-year-old suspect, Chiu, was hiding in the concourse and posing as a homeless person when he spotted the intoxicated woman. He allegedly dragged her to a wall and assaulted her for several minutes.

The attack was witnessed by passers-by, including a Malaysian student who recorded the incident and alerted police. Officers reviewed CCTV footage and arrested Chiu at the scene.

Chiu has multiple prior theft convictions. In 2024, he reportedly stole a truck and an electric scooter and was sentenced to six months in jail, convertible to a fine. After failing to pay, he became a wanted fugitive and was reportedly living near Taipei Main Station disguised as a homeless man.