Chinese mainland punishes die-hard "Taiwan independence" separatists advocating violence

BEIJING, Oct. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council on Monday announced punishments on two die-hard "Taiwan independence" secessionists and an institution they support, for training violent separatists and advocating violent conflicts across the Taiwan Strait.

Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the office, said that with backing from Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities and external forces, the Kuma Academy has openly fostered violent "Taiwan independence" individuals under the guise of training and outdoor activities. He added that the academy has actively engaged in separatist activities, making it a clear stronghold for "Taiwan independence" elements.

Shen Pao-yang, the head of the academy, has been actively and systematically organizing activities promoting "Taiwan independence." He has also deliberately promoted "Taiwan independence" and "anti-China" ideologies, particularly targeting the young people in Taiwan.

Robert Hsing-cheng Tsao, a businessman from the island, has provided substantial financial support to the academy, supporting its activities to divide the country by spreading harmful ideologies of "opposing China and seeking independence" through various means.

"The two individuals have openly pursued efforts to divide the country and fuel discord, seriously threatening peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and causing significant harm to the common interests of people across the Strait as well as the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation," Chen said.

The mainland has decided to include Shen and Tsao on the list of obstinate "Taiwan independence" separatists and impose punishments on them both and the Kuma Academy, Chen said.

The punishments include banning Shen and Tsao and their families from entering the mainland as well as Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, and restricting the Kuma Academy and any institutions related to the academy, Shen or Tsao from working with organizations or individuals in the mainland, according to Chen.

Additionally, their associated businesses and financial sponsors will be strictly prohibited from profiting in the mainland.

According to relevant regulations, the mainland will adopt all other necessary punitive measures and hold them accountable for life, said Chen.

Chen stressed that the mainland will never tolerate any die-hard separatists or bases for "Taiwan independence" and will maintain a tough stance on them. "Taiwan independence" elements will ultimately pay a heavy price for their actions.

Chen called on Taiwan compatriots to remain vigilant, consciously distance themselves from stubborn "Taiwan independence" forces, and firmly oppose separatist activities.

He also called on them to work with compatriots on the mainland to promote cross-Strait exchanges and integrated development, and safeguard the shared home of the Chinese nation.