What prompted the Taiwan smuggling scandal involving presidential bodyguards?

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Discovery of Attempted Smuggling Led to Taiwan Scandal

The Taiwan smuggling scandal involving presidential bodyguards and China Airlines was prompted by the discovery of an agent attempting to smuggle nearly 10,000 cartons of cigarettes through a VIP lane. This incident, which occurred on Monday as President Tsai Ing-wen returned from an overseas state visit, triggered investigations that revealed a long-standing practice of selling large quantities of duty-free cigarettes to staff accompanying the island’s leader on trips. The agent involved had pre-ordered the cigarettes online in Taiwan and stored them at an airport warehouse before attempting to bypass customs.
Large Quantities of Duty-Free Cigarettes Sold Routinely

China Airlines, which frequently operates charter flights for presidential journeys, disclosed that substantial amounts of duty-free cigarettes were consistently ordered in advance of these trips. For instance, during President Tsai's Pacific trip in March, approximately 6,900 cartons were sold to passengers traveling with her. A trip in August 2018 saw nearly 4,500 cartons purchased.
Predecessor's Administration Also Involved

The illicit practice appears to have extended to previous administrations. Under President Ma Ying-jeou, the largest documented sale occurred in March 2016, when around 3,700 cartons were sold to passengers accompanying him on a trip to Central America. This indicates the smuggling scheme had been ongoing for years, predating the current administration.
Violation of Customs Regulations

The quantities of cigarettes involved far exceeded legal limits stipulated by Taiwan’s customs law. Travellers are permitted a maximum of five cartons, with only one being tax-free. Even if 300 passengers on a commercial flight were to purchase their full allowance, it would amount to only 1,500 cartons, a figure significantly lower than those recorded on presidential flights, which typically carry fewer passengers than commercial routes.

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What prompted the Taiwan smuggling scandal involving presidential bodyguards?

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