TAIPEI — The former mayor of Taipei and current chairman of the Taiwan People's Party (TPP), Ko Wen-je, was arrested early Saturday morning by Taiwan's anti-corruption agency as part of a graft probe linked to the redevelopment of a major shopping center.

According to Philippines News Agency, the prosecutor opted to arrest Chairman Ko at 2 a.m. to continue restricting his personal freedom. The arrest follows a day of intensive questioning involving Ko and three others, focusing on alleged corrupt activities related to the Core Pacific City shopping center's redevelopment, as reported by Focus Taiwan. Also questioned were Taipei's deputy mayor Pong Cheng-sheng, Ko's wife Chen Pei-chi, and Pong's wife.

In his remarks to the press on Friday, Ko vehemently denied any misconduct, stating, "I know I have no problem," and challenged the authorities to produce evidence supporting the allegations against him. The TPP has rallied behind Ko, condemning the methods employed by the prosecution, including a raid on Ko's home and party office, followed by prolonged interrogation sessions. The party's statement emphasized its support for Ko, advocating for his right to due process and urging the court to scrutinize the legality of his arrest carefully.