Former Acting Director of Hualien Civil Affairs Department Released on Bail in Guangfu Flood Disaster Case; County Government Urges Against Over-Speculation

Central News Agency

(Central News Agency Reporter Chang Chi, Hualien County, May 8) In the Hualien Prosecutor's Office investigation into the Mataan Creek barrier lake flood disaster, Li Wei, the former acting director of the Hualien County Government's Civil Affairs Department, was released on NT$100,000 bail on suspicion of negligent homicide; the county government stated that it respects the prosecutor's investigation and hopes that all sectors will avoid over-speculation and conjecture before a judicial conclusion is reached.

The Hualien County Government stated that the case is currently under investigation by judicial authorities, and the facts of the case are not yet clear. Based on respect for judicial procedures and the principle of confidentiality of investigations, it will temporarily not comment on the details of the investigation.

The county government stated that it respects the investigation conducted by judicial authorities in accordance with the law, and advocates that the responsibilities of governments at all levels should be fully clarified. It believes that reviewing the system on a factual basis can prevent similar tragedies from recurring and improve future disaster prevention and relief efficiency.

The county government appeals to all sectors to avoid over-speculation and conjecture before a judicial conclusion is reached. If necessary, it will make timely public explanations in accordance with the progress of the judicial investigation and legal regulations.

The Mataan Creek barrier lake overflowed on September 23, 2025 (Republic of China calendar 114), and the river, carrying soil and mud, breached its banks and rushed into Guangfu Township, causing a serious disaster with 19 deaths and 5 disappearances. In March, the Hualien Prosecutor's Office indicted three individuals, including Guangfu Township Mayor Lin Ching-shui, on charges of dereliction of duty by civil servants causing disaster.

Hualien judicial investigators conducted another search yesterday, including at Li Wei's residence and the Hualien County Government. After questioning, Li Wei was released on NT$100,000 bail on suspicion of negligent homicide, subjected to electronic monitoring, and prohibited from leaving the country or sea.

Li Wei did not answer calls from Central News Agency reporters before the deadline. (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150508

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