Taiwan police detained 51 people, including the owner of the gay bar Commander D, on October 3 after a search warrant was executed at the Wanhua district club.
The officers justified the raid under a public‑morality provision that bans “wantonly exposing one’s naked body” in public places, according to precinct spokesman Chen Yu‑cheng. He said the detainees were suspected of violating that clause.
The arrest sparked a spontaneous protest at the police precinct on Sunday. A detainee told Reuters, “They raided the place violently. It was very scary,” while activists shouted at the station, demanding an explanation and accusing authorities of undermining Taiwan’s progressive image.
Commander D has operated for 14 years and faced scrutiny after a city councillor posted photographs alleging underage customers; the mayor had ordered an investigation. The bar denies any underage activities and claims it uses an identity‑verification system.
Taipei’s municipal government announced a review of the police action and plans a possible inquiry next week, while the city gears up for its largest Pride parade later this month. The raid has put Taiwan’s reputation as Asia’s most LGBTQ‑friendly jurisdiction under a spotlight.