Taiwan Hot Pot Chain Owners Suspected of Fleeing with Billions; Restaurant Vandalized

A financial scandal has erupted in Taichung, Taiwan, involving the popular hot pot chain 'Dan Shui Gun.' The owners, a couple identified by the surnames Huang and Hong, along with their four children, are suspected of absconding to mainland China after allegedly defrauding investors of a staggering NT$5 billion (approximately US$154 million).

Reports indicate that around 500 individuals may have been victimized by this alleged scheme. The situation has led to public outrage, with the chain's main branch in Daya district becoming a target of vandalism. Eyewitnesses reported seeing individuals scattering ghost money, a traditional offering for the deceased, in front of the restaurant, signifying extreme dissatisfaction.

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This incident is unexpected, and we deeply regret it, but this area is not the property of the Huang couple. Please do not cause damage. We ask for your understanding and cooperation.

The landlord of the damaged property has posted a notice pleading with the public and investors not to further vandalize the premises, emphasizing that the property does not belong to the alleged perpetrators. "This incident is unexpected, and we deeply regret it," the notice reads, "but this area is not the property of the Huang couple. Please do not cause damage. We ask for your understanding and cooperation."

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Only dozens of victims have reported to this precinct, with amounts totaling over NT$100 million, but victims can also report to other precincts.

Authorities are investigating the case. The Daya Police Precinct stated that dozens of victims have reported losses totaling over NT$100 million. However, they acknowledge that victims may have filed reports with other police stations as well. Meanwhile, the defrauded investors have reportedly formed a self-help group to coordinate their efforts in recovering their lost funds. Rumors suggest that the couple transferred the invested money into real estate, with over 20 properties reportedly registered under their names and their children's.

Previously, the wife, Hong, had a social media presence where her posts received positive engagement. However, recent comments on her Facebook page are now filled with desperate pleas from victims demanding their money back, highlighting the stark contrast between her past online persona and the current financial crisis.

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Give me back my money.