Taiwan Increases Penalties for Undersea Cable Damage to Seven Years

The Legislative Yuan in Taiwan has approved stricter penalties for individuals convicted of intentionally damaging undersea cables and pipelines, with sentences now reaching up to seven years in prison. This legislative move comes in response to increasing concerns over the protection of critical underwater infrastructure. Additionally, vessels involved in such damage could be confiscated under the new laws.

Earlier this year, the captain of the Chinese-crewed freighter Hong Tai 58 received a three-year prison sentence after being found guilty of damaging the Taiwan-Penghu No. 3 undersea cable. Prosecutors have argued for harsher penalties, leading to amendments proposed by the Executive Yuan on September 18, 2023. These amendments affect seven laws aimed at safeguarding essential underwater infrastructure, including the Telecommunications Management Act, the Water Supply Act, and the Electricity Act.

The newly approved penalties apply not only to undersea cables but also to water and natural gas pipelines. Under the amendments, unlawfully damaging these critical utilities can result in imprisonment for one to seven years and fines up to NT$10 million (approximately US$320,359). Negligent offenses will be addressed under the Telecommunications Management Act, carrying penalties of up to six months in prison or fines up to NT$2 million.

In a significant step towards transparency, the Legislative Yuan has mandated the Ministry of the Interior to publish maps detailing the locations of undersea pipes and cables. Lawmakers believe this will help prevent offenders from claiming ignorance about the infrastructure’s locations and will enhance public understanding of legal responsibilities.

In related developments, opposition lawmakers have once again blocked the Executive Yuan’s proposed special defense budget of NT$1.25 trillion, which is intended for national defense over the next eight years. The budget proposal faced resistance from members of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) and the Taiwan People’s Party, who prevented it from reaching committee review.

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator Fan Yun criticized the opposition for obstructing crucial funding, suggesting their actions are aimed at undermining national governance. She clarified that the proposed budget would average slightly more than NT$150 billion per year and argued that any serious concerns should be discussed in committee meetings rather than stalling the legislative process.

KMT caucus secretary-general Lo Chih-chiang countered that the DPP is responsible for the ongoing delays, stating that President William Lai lacks the courage to address questions in the legislature. Lai has expressed willingness to report to the legislature, provided it aligns with legal requirements. The DPP has maintained that the opposition’s demands for an impromptu session are unconstitutional, citing the separation of powers.

As Taiwan navigates these critical legislative changes, the focus remains on enhancing the protection of its infrastructure while balancing political dynamics within its government.