Taipei: Taiwan on Wednesday dismissed China's announcement of a bounty targeting Taiwan's military psychological operations officers, calling it an act of 'cognitive warfare.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Tsai Ming-yen, the head of Taiwan's National Security Bureau (NSB), stated that Beijing issued the notices shortly after the island's National Day on Oct. 10 as part of its ongoing 'coercion tactics.' Tsai informed lawmakers that the information gathered about the listed officials could be used by China for 'psychological warfare purposes.'

Tsai noted that the bureau is working closely with the Defense Ministry and other intelligence agencies to enhance the 'de-identification' process to protect the identities of personnel. The measures aim to safeguard those targeted by the bounty, ensuring their security and anonymity.

The Chinese police in Xiamen, located in the eastern Fujian Province, offered rewards on Saturday for tips on 18 individuals allegedly serving as officers in Taiwan's Psychological Operations Battalion. These individuals are accused by China of 'inciting secession,' a charge often used by Beijing against those advocating for Taiwan's independence.

The bureau revealed that informants could receive a reward of 10,000 yuan ($1,405) for information leading to the identification of these officers. Taiwan views this move as part of China's broader strategy to undermine its sovereignty and security.

The longstanding tension between China and Taiwan continues, with China viewing Taiwan as a breakaway province, while Taipei insists on its independence. This latest development is seen as an escalation in the psychological and diplomatic standoff between the two.