Yilan County, Taiwan — March 25, 2026
Police in Yilan County have arrested a 23-year-old man accused of repeatedly stealing donation money from a local temple in Dongshan Township.
According to the Luodong Police Precinct, the suspect, identified by his surname Li, allegedly carried out multiple चोरी incidents targeting the temple’s donation box. The thefts reportedly escalated over time—from initially using improvised tools to extract cash to eventually breaking open the collection box.
Temple officials reported losses exceeding NT$30,000 and decided to file a police complaint after noticing repeated incidents. Surveillance footage showed the suspect entering the premises during late-night hours, often after midnight, when the area was quiet.
Authorities said that on March 15, Li first attempted to steal money using a rope-based method to “fish” cash from the box. However, on the night of March 24, he returned with tools, used his mobile phone flashlight to inspect the contents, and then forcibly pried open the donation box using a wrench.
Temple representatives described the acts as premeditated, noting that the suspect appeared familiar with the surroundings. He reportedly left the scene briefly during one attempt, only to return with different tools to continue the theft. The repeated incidents accumulated to significant financial losses, drawing anger from devotees and the local community.
After footage of the suspect circulated on social media, residents identified his movements across nearby areas, including Luodong, Dongshan, and Sanxing, and warned others to remain vigilant.
Following the report, the Luodong Police Precinct launched an investigation, reviewing surveillance recordings to trace the suspect’s movements and identify his vehicle. Officers were able to quickly confirm his identity and apprehend him.
The case has been forwarded to the Yilan District Prosecutors Office on charges of theft.
Police stated that they will strengthen patrol operations and implement additional security measures in temples across the jurisdiction, particularly during nighttime hours, to prevent similar incidents and ensure community safety.