Taiwan Factory Feud: Iron Shavings Lead to Assault and Threats

A Workplace Dispute in Changhua County Escalates into Violence and Legal Consequences.

A workplace dispute in Taiwan's Changhua County escalated into a physical altercation and subsequent threats, resulting in a legal judgment. The incident involved two male colleagues, with the conflict sparked by iron shavings blown from a machine.

According to court documents, the incident began when Lai, around the age of fifty, allegedly blew iron shavings towards his colleague, Zhang, while using an air gun at the factory. Zhang became upset and voiced his displeasure, prompting an aggressive response from Lai.

The situation escalated when Lai allegedly threw a vise wrench at Zhang's back, and then, as Zhang attempted to flee, proceeded to choke him while hitting his head with the same wrench. Zhang suffered multiple injuries, including wounds to his head, neck, back, chest, and arm.

Following the assault, Zhang reported the incident and, as he was doing so, was subjected to further threats from Lai, who reportedly stated, "I will never let you go." The Changhua District Court found Lai guilty of assault and threatening behavior, sentencing him to five months' imprisonment. The verdict is subject to appeal.