October 20, 2025 – Taipei City, Taiwan
A woman working in Taipei’s technology sector was robbed of NT$1.92 million during a supposed virtual currency transaction in Nangang District on October 18. The suspect, a man surnamed Tang, fled the scene after stealing the cash but was arrested within 20 minutes following a swift police operation.
According to the Nangang Police Station, the 48-year-old victim, surnamed Ding, had previously completed two successful virtual currency trades and was planning to buy Tether (USDT) through a broker she met online via a friend’s introduction. They agreed to meet for the transaction on Section 1, Nangang Road, Taipei City.
When Ding arrived at the scene, Tang, 31, entered her car to confirm the details. However, after waiting for some time, Ding noticed that the virtual currency had not been transferred as promised. Sensing something was wrong, she questioned Tang — who then suddenly grabbed the NT$1.92 million in cash and fled. Ding immediately chased after him and shouted for help, prompting bystanders to contact the police.
Officers quickly reviewed CCTV footage and coordinated a blockade and search operation. Thanks to tips from nearby residents, police located Tang’s getaway vehicle — a rented car — on Section 3, Kangning Road in Neihu. He was arrested and handcuffed on the spot. Authorities successfully recovered the stolen cash and later discovered that Tang had also collected NT$50,000 from other victims in Taichung under similar circumstances.
During questioning, Tang told police he had answered a Facebook job ad offering NT$5,000 per day, believing he was simply collecting money on behalf of an employer. However, investigators identified him as a money collector for a fraud syndicate operating under the guise of cryptocurrency trading.
Tang was transferred to the Shilin District Prosecutor’s Office for investigation on charges of fraud and robbery, and prosecutors have already secured court approval for his detention. Authorities are now tracing other members of the syndicate.
Police remind the public to only trade virtual currencies through licensed and verified platforms, and to avoid meeting strangers or transferring money in person. They emphasized that fraud syndicates are constantly evolving, using sophisticated methods to exploit investors.
“Don’t risk your safety or finances through unofficial transactions,” the police warned. “Always use legal channels to avoid becoming the next victim.”