Changhua County, Taiwan — March 31, 2026
A Vietnamese migrant worker has been sentenced to prison after becoming involved in a fraud scheme that targeted a man seeking a romantic relationship online, resulting in financial loss and failed restitution efforts.
According to the ruling of the Changhua District Court, the worker, identified by his surname Vu, joined a fraud syndicate in June last year and acted as a “money mule.” His role involved collecting a package that ultimately contributed to a scam operation, leading to a victim surnamed Huang losing NT$10,000.
Investigations revealed that Vu received only NT$300 for retrieving the package but was later apprehended by authorities. Although he admitted his involvement in the crime, he was unable to compensate the victim for the financial damages, resulting in unsuccessful mediation between the two parties.
Court documents indicated that the fraud case began when another suspect, surnamed Tian from New Taipei City, became entangled with the scam group after responding to a fraudulent Facebook advertisement promoting a “health insurance subsidy lottery.” Tian reportedly provided his bank ATM card and PIN to the group.
The victim, Huang, encountered a woman online using the alias “PURPO Xixi” on a dating platform. The suspect convinced Huang to pay a NT$10,000 membership fee as a prerequisite for entering a relationship. Believing the claim, Huang transferred the amount to Tian’s account.
On June 22 last year, Vu followed instructions from the syndicate to retrieve a package containing Tian’s ATM card from a convenience store in Changhua. He then passed it on to another member of the group. The card was later used by unidentified individuals to withdraw the victim’s funds.
Upon realizing that the relationship offer was a scam and that he had been deceived, Huang reported the incident to the police. Authorities subsequently traced and arrested both Tian and Vu.
During questioning, Vu stated that he was only told he would be paid for picking up a package and claimed he was unaware of the broader criminal activity. He also admitted he had no financial means to repay the victim, which led to the collapse of settlement negotiations.
The court emphasized that Vu, despite being capable of lawful employment, chose to assist a criminal organization, thereby hindering law enforcement efforts and contributing to the spread of fraud. He was convicted of aggravated fraud and sentenced to one year and seven months in prison. Upon completion of his sentence, he will be deported. The case remains open for appeal.
Legal experts noted that fraud syndicates often target vulnerable migrant workers, particularly those who are undocumented or financially distressed. These individuals may be lured by small financial incentives and, due to limited legal knowledge, can become scapegoats in larger criminal operations.