Image reproduced from 中視新聞

A tragic incident in Fengyuan District, Taichung City, has garnered significant attention as a family of five was found dead at their residence, having allegedly incurred substantial debts due to a 'gold buying' scam. The police recently detained two women connected to the case, including a beautician named Zhang, whose role in the matter is under scrutiny.

The roots of the event trace back to June 24, when the Wang family, consisting of the parents and their three children, were discovered in an apartment above their military supplies store on Sanmin Road. Their deaths prompted an immediate and intensive investigation by the police, which revealed that they had sought assistance from city councilor Hsieh Chih-chung, indicating that they had fallen into financial peril through a scheme involving the credit card purchase of gold orchestrated by the eldest daughter's classmate.

Investigation findings suggest that Zhang, aged 35, and another woman, surnamed Li, are critical to understanding the case. Zhang is viewed as a principal suspect in this fraud, while Li is believed to have acted as the 'group buying leader,' introducing the Wang family to underground lenders. Reports indicate that Li not only encouraged the Wang family to engage with these lenders but also pressured them repeatedly for repayment.

During the investigation, Li was transferred to the Taichung District Prosecutor's Office to face charges of fraud. As for Zhang, her precise role remains unclear as the inquiry continues. Although she has since been released under residential restrictions, her justifications appear weak, claiming she merely introduced the Wang family to Li, while Li counters that the family independently chose to invest in gold.

In this fraudulent arrangement, Li has emerged as the primary figure responsible for managing the Wang family's 'group buying' of gold and has reportedly visited them multiple times to demand repayments as well as assisting the eldest daughter in obtaining loans from pawn shops. Due to the complexity of the case, authorities indicate that further clarification is needed about the details surrounding the incident.

This case sheds light on the dangers of fraudulent schemes and underscores the importance of seeking help when faced with difficulties. Society is encouraged to promote resources that empower individuals to seek professional help, affirming that suicide is not a solution to problems, and collective efforts are required to prevent similar tragedies in the future.