Taichung police dismantle fraud syndicate using drone technology

Taichung City Police Department has dismantled a major fraud and money laundering syndicate following a coordinated land-and-air operation in the mountainous areas of Hsinchu. Using big data analysis and ATAK (Android Tactical Assault Kit) drone technology, officers tracked and apprehended a 43-year-old suspect, surnamed Zhong, who attempted to flee by vehicle.

Zhong allegedly managed a criminal group that utilized fake prosecutor and police personas, as well as fraudulent investment schemes, to deceive victims. The group operated a money laundering facility in Hsinchu to process proceeds from cross-border scams. According to investigators, the syndicate used the messaging app Telegram to direct members to transfer stolen funds into designated digital wallets using the cryptocurrency Tether (USDT).

The investigation revealed that 68 people were defrauded, most of whom were Chinese nationals. One Taiwanese victim reportedly lost 14 million TWD to the group's impersonation tactics. Police seized over 1.7 million TWD in cash and various mobile devices. A total of 30 syndicate members have been identified, and the case has been referred to the Taichung District Prosecutors Office for prosecution.