Daredevil's Train Surf from Taipei to Keelung Lands Him in Trouble

A Taiwanese man's risky stunt on a moving train results in a hefty fine and a reminder of safety protocols.

Taipei, Taiwan – April 6th: A man's reckless act of "train surfing" between Taipei and Keelung City has landed him in hot water, facing a significant fine for violating railway regulations, as confirmed by authorities.

The incident involved a man identified as Mr. Tsai (蔡). He disembarked from a Taitung-bound Taroko Express train at Nangang Station in Taipei. Upon his return to the platform, he found the train doors already closed. In a moment of apparent panic, Mr. Tsai climbed onto the coupling between the third and fourth carriages as the train began its journey.

Taiwan Railway Corp. (TRC) personnel at Xizhi Station in New Taipei City noticed the suspicious activity through surveillance cameras. They promptly alerted the train conductor and control center around 8:15 p.m. on Saturday.

When the train was subsequently ordered to stop at Qidu Station in Keelung City, Mr. Tsai descended onto the tracks and was apprehended by railway police. Thankfully, Mr. Tsai, estimated to be around 40 years old, escaped the ordeal without any injuries.

The incident caused a minimal five-minute delay at Qidu Station, according to the state-run railway company. However, the consequences for Mr. Tsai are more substantial. The Railway Police Bureau has stated that he is now facing a fine ranging from NT$1,500 (approximately US$45.18) to NT$7,500, based on Articles 57 and 71 of the Railway Act.

Following this alarming event, the TRC has issued a renewed call for passengers to strictly observe safety rules and to refrain from actions that could endanger themselves or others.