Shilin Prosecutors Request Detention for Sun An-tso in Homemade Flamethrower Case; Accomplice Granted Bail

Taipei, May 16 (CNA) - The Shilin District Prosecutors Office announced late tonight that they have requested the detention and incommunicado status for Sun An-tso (son of actor Sun Peng, now named Sun Chien-hao) and granted bail of NT$30,000 to an accomplice surnamed Chen. The two are suspected of testing a homemade flamethrower by a riverbank and posting a video of the act. The prosecutors' office stated in a press release that a video circulating on social media showed individuals using a flamethrower-like device within their jurisdiction. The dangerous nature of the footage and its suspected intentional dissemination caused public debate and panic, severely disrupting public order. Upon learning of the incident, Shilin Chief Prosecutor Wang I-wen immediately assigned Chief Prosecutor Liu Tung-yun and Prosecutor Chiu Hsien-min of the Major Crimes Division to lead an investigation with the Taipei City Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division and the Beitou Precinct. This morning, the task force legally searched the residences of suspects Sun and Chen, seizing a shoulder-mounted flamethrower device, fuel lines, an industrial-grade flammable gas steel safety storage tank, a modified shotgun, a replica gun, and marijuana. Both were arrested. After interrogation, prosecutors determined that Sun is a primary suspect in offenses including public intimidation, attempted arson, endangering land transport by other means under the Criminal Code, and possessing a lethal firearm and a prohibited replica gun under the Arms, Ammunition and Knives Control Act. Citing a significant risk of flight, destruction of evidence, collusion with accomplices and witnesses, and repeated offenses, the prosecutors have applied to the court for his detention incommunicado. The accomplice, Chen, is suspected of public intimidation, endangering land transport, and use and possession of a Category 2 narcotic. He was granted bail of NT$30,000 with restricted residence and a travel ban. The Shilin District Prosecutors Office emphasized its commitment to thoroughly investigating all aspects of the case and will act swiftly and strictly against any illegal acts that endanger public safety, disrupt social order, or threaten lives and property. (Edited by Chen Yen-chun) 1150516