TAIPEI (Taiwan News) —  Following a raid on his residence by prosecutors on Friday (Aug. 30), former Taipei mayor and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) Chair Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) has demanded authorities provide evidence to justify their search. 

As part of the Taipei District Prosecutor's investigation into corruption at Core Pacific City, officers raided Ko's residence on Section 2, Jinshan South Road at 7:30 a.m., per Liberty Times. After a four-hour search, Ko, his wife Chen Pei-chi (陳佩琪), and his attorney appeared outside the home at around 11:53 a.m. 

Ko told the media, “Today marks the first time in Taiwan's history that the home, office, and central headquarters of the major opposition's chair have been searched," per ETtoday. “I am very open and honest, I know I have done nothing wrong."  

Demanding an explanation from the government, Ko asked, “What evidence do the ruling authorities have to take such action?” 

When asked if he felt politically persecuted, Ko said: “I don't think it's necessary to make any presuppositions. We still hope that Taiwan's judiciary can be trusted, but since they have carried out these searches, they must explain what evidence and reasons they have for searching the Taiwan People's Party central headquarters, my residence, and office,” per CTS News.

After Ko finished speaking, he and Chen got into a car with investigators. They were taken to the Agency Against Corruption for further questioning. After questioning is completed they will be transferred to the Taipei District Prosecutor's Office for additional interrogation.