On Tuesday (June 10), Taipei prosecutors formally charged four individuals with allegedly spying for China in a high-profile case that has reached as far as Taiwan's presidential office. Prosecutors are seeking prison terms of over 18 years for each accused. Taiwan, which operates as a democratic and self-governed entity, has reported growing political and military pressure from Beijing in recent years. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory — a claim the government in Taipei firmly rejects.

According to the prosecutors, all four individuals previously belonged to the ruling Democratic Progressive Party and now face charges including espionage. Among them is a former aide to ex-foreign minister Joseph Wu, who currently leads the National Security Council, and a former adviser to the presidential office, according to sources familiar with the case. The accused are suspected of leaking or handing over classified national security materials to Chinese authorities. The prosecution is pushing for prison sentences of no less than 18 years.

Reuters was unable to obtain contact details for any legal representatives of the defendants, and China's Taiwan Affairs Office has not commented on the case. Taiwan’s presidential office declined to address specific details due to the ongoing investigation but emphasized that anyone, regardless of political ties, who betrays the nation or collaborates with hostile foreign forces should face the harshest legal penalties.