Up In Arms

Taiwan has some of the toughest gun-control laws in the world. Private ownership of firearms is largely outlawed; people convicted of illegally making, transporting or selling guns can face the death penalty. But several high-profile shootingsincluding a June 16 gun battle between police and suspected kidnappers in Taichung City that left two cops dead, and the March 19 assassination attempt on President Chen Shui-bianhave prompted a crackdown on illegal firearms. Over the past several months, more than 90 people suspected of illegal possession have been detained and more than 100 weapons seized. Lawmakers also plan to boost penalties for homemade firearms....