Whistleblower in Tainan Slag Case, Village Chief Li Xin-jin, Dies at 79

Li Xin-jin, a dedicated four-term village chief of Tainan's Cifu Village in Xuejia District, has died at the age of 79. He was widely respected for his courageous whistleblowing in a case involving the illegal dumping of industrial slag, which exposed illicit profits exceeding NT$2.1 billion.

Li Xin-jin played a pivotal role in uncovering the environmental scandal in 2019 when he reported the burial of industrial slag on farmland near the Jiangjun River. He discovered that over two hectares of land had been contaminated, posing a significant risk to soil and groundwater. Initially acting alone, Li's persistence garnered support from various sectors, eventually drawing public attention to the issue.

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Delayed justice is not justice.

Despite facing pressure and attempts at suppression for obstructing illicit activities, Li remained steadfast in his commitment to environmental protection. He often stated that his reporting was not for personal gain but stemmed from a desire for a clean living environment for his community. His fight against powerful interests earned him the admiration of many, who hailed him as a 'lifelong environmental fighter.'

Friends and relatives expressed deep sorrow over Li's passing, remembering his unwavering spirit in defending his hometown. His health had reportedly declined in recent years, requiring frequent hospitalizations. The funeral arrangements were made before the Ghost Month, with the ceremony held at his old home on August 13. Li's legacy is one of bravery and dedication to environmental justice.

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Reporting was not for myself, but simply because I hoped the local area would have a clean living environment. But because I blocked someone's path to wealth, I was seen as a thorn in their side and repeatedly suppressed, but I did not back down and insisted on fighting for environmental protection.