Two women investigated after family of 5 found dead in Taichung

Taichung, July 6 (CNA) Prosecutors in Taichung are investigating two women in connection with a family of five who were found dead in their home on Wednesday after apparently falling victim to a fraudulent investment scheme.

Suicide notes left at the scene described deep regret over trusting a former classmate and investing in what turned out to be a fake gold purchasing scam.

The victims, all from the same household in the central Taiwanese city's Fengyuan District, wrote that they were overwhelmed by debt and could no longer repay what they owed.

One of the women under investigation, a 35-year-old surnamed Chang (張), was a former classmate of the family's eldest daughter who had introduced the second woman, a 45-year-old surnamed Lee (李), to the family.

Lee organized group purchases of gold that the family, surnamed Wang (王), joined to earn commissions.

Both women were brought in for questioning on Friday night, according to the Taichung District Prosecutors Office.

Chang was interrogated that evening and placed under residency restrictions on suspicion of fraud, while Lee was questioned by police on Saturday and transferred to the prosecutors office later that night, the office said.

Lee was held for questioning overnight and released early Sunday on bail of NT$150,000 (US$5,182), prosecutors said, adding that she is restricted from traveling overseas.

The Taichung District Prosecutors Office said Sunday that a task force has been formed with the Fengyuan Precinct of the Taichung City Police Department and the Criminal Investigation Division to investigate the case.

Searches were conducted at two locations in Fengyuan District on Friday after prosecutors obtained warrants from the Taichung District Court.

On Saturday, investigators examined physical evidence left at the Wang family's residence.

Prosecutors allege that solicitation for investment in the gold scam began in June 2024, but that other key details remain under investigation.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts in Taiwan, please call the 1925, 1995, or 1980 hotlines for help.