Taiwan's railway authority conducts anti-riot exercise

Taiwan's railway authority on Thursday conducted its first anti-riot exercise in Banqiao station, a move to prepare emergency services for violent attacks on public transportation.

The exercise imitated a criminal attacking passengers in a carriage of a moving train, causing many injuries. The criminal was eventually apprehended by police. Rescue workers then attended the scene to take the injured to hospital.

The exercise lasted 30 minutes and more than 180 people took part in, including railway staff, police officers, firefighters and rescue workers.

The island's railway authority has previously carried out exercises against explosions and fires.

Ku Shih-Yen, who is in charge of the Taipei transportation section, wants increased capabilities in tackling emergencies to guarantee passenger safety.

Four people died and more than 20 were injured in an attack on a Taipei metro train on May 21.

Since the attack, there has been increased police presence and patrols in public places, including at subway and railway stations and airports.