By Li Shu-yu
Source: The News Lens (關鍵評論網)
TAINAN —A cram school in Annan District, Tainan (台南市安南區) has been fined after an incident in which a first-grade student was allegedly bullied and forced to swallow a magnet measuring approximately three centimeters in length.
According to Tainan City education officials, the incident involved an 11-year-old fifth grader and a six-year-old first grader. The magnet remained in the younger child’s digestive tract for several days before being naturally expelled. Parents have accused the cram school and related institutions of failing to report the incident promptly.
The case drew public attention after it was disclosed by Tainan City Councilor Lin Yan-chu (林燕祝). In response, the Tainan City Education Bureau held a press conference on February 2, outlining the reporting timeline and the results of an official inspection of the cram school.
Education officials said the school failed to proactively report the incident and was unable to provide surveillance footage from the relevant time period, citing a damaged hard drive. Authorities said they will investigate whether evidence was deliberately destroyed and warned that penalties would be increased if violations are confirmed.
Following an on-site inspection, the Education Bureau identified at least three violations, including illegally operating after-school care services and employing teaching staff not registered in the official system. Fines ranging from NT$6,000 to NT$300,000 may be imposed under relevant child welfare and education laws.
Officials said the child is continuing medical follow-up and is not currently in danger. The Education Bureau urged cram schools to operate strictly within the law and reminded parents to report suspected violations through official channels.
