Homes of Former TSMC Executive Raided in Criminal Probe
Prosecutors in Taiwan have conducted searches at the residences of a former Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. executive as part of a criminal investigation into suspected trade secret leaks to Intel Corp. The raids represent a significant escalation in the government's probe into the high-profile dispute between the world's leading chipmakers.
Authorities executed search warrants at both the Taipei and Hsinchu homes of former Senior Vice President Lo Wei-jen on Wednesday, according to statements from the prosecutors' office. Lo is suspected of violating Taiwan's national security law through his alleged actions.
Assets Seized as Investigation Intensifies
In addition to the property searches, prosecutors obtained court approval to seize Lo's stocks and real estate holdings. This move demonstrates the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case and their concern about potential financial gains from the alleged information transfer.
The legal action comes just days after TSMC filed a lawsuit against Lo, citing substantial evidence suggesting he leaked sensitive information from the world's most advanced chipmaker to his current employer in the United States. Intel has publicly rejected these allegations, while Lo himself has remained unavailable for comment through company channels.
Geopolitical Implications of Chip Technology
The intense focus from both TSMC and Taiwanese authorities underscores the extraordinary sensitivity surrounding cutting-edge semiconductor technology. This expertise not only forms the foundation of TSMC's market leadership but also constitutes a crucial element of Taiwan's geopolitical influence on the world stage.
While TSMC regularly experiences employee departures to competitors and supply chain partners, the case involving Lo stands apart due to his senior standing and extensive tenure at the company. His departure from TSMC in July after more than two decades of service marked the loss of one of the company's most experienced technology leaders.
An Intel spokesperson declined to comment when contacted by Bloomberg News on Thursday about the recent developments. The company maintains its position that the allegations are without merit.
TSMC's current market valuation exceeds US$1.15 trillion, reflecting its dominant position in contract chip manufacturing that has enabled it to surpass semiconductor pioneer Intel. The company's proprietary data and fabrication techniques represent highly prized assets with significant strategic importance for Taiwan.
Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs has announced it will closely monitor the situation for potential impacts on the domestic chip industry. The ministry has pledged full cooperation with local prosecutors in the investigation into possible violations of national security law.
During his tenure at TSMC, Lo held responsibility for research and technology development, playing a critical role in advancing mass production of cutting-edge chips, including those used in artificial intelligence accelerators. His technical expertise made him one of the company's most valuable assets in maintaining its technological edge.
Before joining TSMC in 2004, Lo had previously worked at Intel, where he focused on advanced technology development and managed a chip fabrication facility in Santa Clara, California. His background with both companies has raised questions about potential conflicts of interest following his return to the American chipmaker.
