Ankara: Chinese police have announced rewards for information on 18 individuals identified as Taiwanese military psychological operations officers accused of 'inciting secession,' as reported by state media.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Public Security Bureau in Xiamen, a city in Fujian Province, has placed a bounty on the 18 members of Taiwan's military 'Psychological Operations Battalion.' The Global Times reported that Xiamen police have accused these individuals of producing fake videos, operating illegal radios for infiltration, and manipulating public opinion to promote "Taiwan independence."

The Chinese authorities have pledged to reward informants who provide valid information with 10,000 yuan ($1,405). Additionally, individuals who assist public security authorities in apprehending these officers will also be eligible for the reward.

In response to these actions, Taiwan's Defense Ministry has stated that China has been exploiting Taiwan's information environment to "divide people" and conduct cognitive warfare. The Ministry accused China of deliberately manipulating information flow to destabilize the region.

On Friday, Taiwanese regional leader William Lai Ching-te marked the national day in Taiwan by announcing plans to build a "T-Dome" system aimed at creating a safety net for the island. Lai revealed plans to increase defense spending to 3% of GDP from next year and reach 5% by 2030. He emphasized that this increase is essential to counter enemy threats and to drive the development of Taiwan's defense industries.

The backdrop of these developments is the long-standing tension between China and Taiwan. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province, while Taipei has maintained its stance on independence since 1949.