TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan prosecutors detained several prominent entertainers Tuesday (Oct. 21) in a third wave of searches targeting alleged draft evasion schemes. The suspects include actors Kai Hsiu (修杰楷), Chen Bolin (陳柏霖), and Joe Chang (張書偉) from the boy band Energy, all accused of involvement in the "Draft Dodgers Group" case.
Defense Minister Wellington Koo (顾立雄) emphasized the urgency of preventing similar draft evasion incidents through inter-agency collaboration. Koo stated officials have discussed preventive measures with the Tri-Service General Hospital, Taiwan's military medical facility, but acknowledged the current situation requires further investigation.
Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang (劉世芳) pledged full cooperation with the judicial investigation into the draft evasion scandal. Liu stated the Ministry of the Interior (內政部), Taiwan's domestic affairs agency, respects the investigation and will assist prosecutors. The minister emphasized the ministry's commitment to supporting the judicial process as district prosecutors begin their probe.
Prosecutors seek to determine how the entertainers contacted the alleged mastermind, identified only by surname Chen, and details about the group's methods and costs. Under Taiwan's Punishment Act for Violation to Military Service System (妨害兵役治罪條例), draft evaders face up to five years imprisonment while facilitators risk three to ten years. Failure to report for mandatory military service can trigger arrest warrants, restricting international travel and educational opportunities. ◼