Malaysian Influencer Detained in Taiwan Over Alleged Role in Fraud Scheme

Malaysian influencer Hu Chang Mun, widely known as Ady Hu, has been detained in Taiwan for his alleged involvement in a fraudulent operation. The 31-year-old, who was reported missing earlier in December, was located by Taiwanese authorities after suspicions arose regarding his activities.

According to reports, Hu had informed his family and friends on 11 December that he was in Taiwan and intended to stay for several more months. Shortly after, he ceased communication, prompting his family in Bentong, Pahang, to file a police report. They also sought assistance from Bilut assemblyman Lee Chin Chen, who contacted the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia for help in locating Hu.

Mr Lee later confirmed that the office had responded, verifying Hu‘s whereabouts. However, developments took a surprising turn when Taiwan’s ETtoday News portal reported that a 31-year-old man named Hu had been apprehended by the Yuanlin Police Substation in Changhua district. The man, a tourist from Malaysia, was found to be involved in a scam network. Investigations revealed that Hu and the arrested individual were the same person.

The fraud case came to light when a middle-aged woman from Changhua district fell victim to an online investment platform promoted on social media. Enticed by promises of high returns, she conducted two in-person transactions with the group, handing over NT$2.3 million (approximately S$96,000). Realising she had been deceived, she alerted the authorities.

On 11 December, during a third transaction where the woman delivered an additional NT$2 million (approximately S$83,500), Taiwanese police intervened and arrested Hu at the scene. Further investigations revealed that Hus role in the operation was consistent with what Taiwanese media refer to as a “driver.” This individual is typically tasked with collecting cash from victims who have been tricked into withdrawing money.

Authorities explained that such “drivers” earn commissions based on the amounts they collect. Hu, who had entered Taiwan under the visa exemption policy, reportedly claimed that he was unaware of the fraudulent nature of the operation. He stated that he had been seeking to earn money during his holiday but had unknowingly become involved in a scam.

Following his arrest, the case was handed over to legal authorities on charges of fraud, money laundering, and violations of banking laws. Taiwanese prosecutors requested Hu‘s detention, which was approved. The authorities in Taiwan have since informed their Malaysian counterparts about Hu’s arrest.

While Malaysian officials have yet to issue a formal statement, the case highlights the growing involvement of foreigners in sophisticated scam networks in Taiwan.