Taipei: The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has urged the Hong Kong authorities to provide an explanation for the detention of a Taiwanese national who was apprehended upon arrival in the city on February 18 on suspicion of money laundering.

According to Focus Taiwan, MAC Deputy Head and Spokesperson Liang Wen-chieh emphasized the need for a swift conclusion of procedures and a detailed explanation from Hong Kong authorities during a news briefing held on Thursday in Taipei. The detained individual was part of a delegation organized by the Hualien County Government and was supposed to attend a travel expo in Hong Kong on February 20, along with opposition Kuomintang (KMT) legislative caucus whip Fu Kun-chi.

MAC head Chiu Chui-cheng revealed that the individual is being held on money laundering charges as per Hong Kong law. The detention was reported to the Office of Hong Kong Affairs, managed by MAC, by other members of the delegation the morning after their arrival. The office promptly initiated inquiries with the Hong Kong police regarding the arrest.

The detained individual, who works at the Shin Kong Chao Feng Resort Ranch in Hualien County, was not involved in any national security-related issues, according to MAC. The council is awaiting further details and facts from Hong Kong authorities.

Reports from different sources present varying accusations. Mirror Media quoted sources suggesting that the detainee, surnamed Chen, was linked to a money laundering case from 25 years ago, while HK01 reported her involvement in a 2019 fraud case. This discrepancy in reports has prompted further investigations by MAC.

Liang clarified that Chen has been employed at the resort ranch for about 20 years, focusing on public relations and auditing tasks, and has no suspicious background. Her employer has retained a lawyer in Hong Kong to represent her.

The council noted that a second bail hearing is set for Friday, with a formal court session scheduled for April 17.