Yilan County Four-Term Councilor Detained Over Alleged Vote-Buying Scheme Involving Son's Campaign

A political scandal has hit Yilan County as a veteran four-term local councilor, Yang Shun-mu, faces formal detention and prohibition of communication over alleged vote-buying activities. According to judicial and investigative authorities, the high-profile politician is accused of orchestrating a financial scheme to assist his son’s political campaign by offering illicit payments to voters.

Investigators launched searches targeting multiple locations, including the councilor’s residence and campaign headquarters, following whistleblower reports and preliminary evidence gathering. Prosecutors stated that the scheme allegedly involved distributing cash sums per vote to influence electoral outcomes in favor of the younger candidate. Alongside the veteran politician, several campaign aides and local fixers have also been taken into custody as the investigation deepens.

The detention of such a long-serving local figure has sent shockwaves through the local political community. Local observers noted that Yang had built a substantial political base over four consecutive terms, making the sudden allegations of electoral corruption particularly stunning to constituents and fellow politicians alike.

Judicial authorities emphasized that the ongoing investigation aims to uphold electoral integrity and ensure that all candidates compete on a fair and legal playing field. Prosecutors are continuing to question suspects and review financial records to determine the full scope of the vote-buying network. Further updates are expected as the legal proceedings advance through the local court system.

Sources: 三立新聞