For the first time, public security authorities in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) are targeting Taiwanese military personnel and so-called “Taiwan independence” (台独) forces through a law enforcement framework. Akin to techniques previously used in Hong Kong, the the Guangzhou Public Security Bureau recently issued a “wanted” notice offering a reward for information leading to the apprehension of 20 retired and active personnel in Taiwan’s Information, Communication, and Electronic Force Command (ICEFCOM).
The operation appears to involve close coordination between the Public Security Bureau and state media outlets. Within minutes of the announcement, the photos and ID numbers of the 20 Taiwanese personnel were plastered across the Chinese Internet, as was a detailed report purporting to show how they had launched a cyberattack against PRC institutions.
Part of a growing trend of cyber and psychological warfare tactics, this latest operation sought to reframe the issue by portraying the PRC as a victim and Taipei as an aggressor, while also aiming to deter any future pro-independence activities by threatening punishment.
Taiwan Bounty: PRC Cross-Agency Operations Target Taiwanese Military Personnel – Jamestown
