Gold Investment Firm Under Investigation for Alleged Fraud; Police Confirm Legality of Previous Donation

Authorities Raid Over 50 Locations Nationwide in Probe of "Holy Stone Gold Industry Company" for Suspected Illegal Fundraising.

Authorities have launched a nationwide investigation into "Holy Stone Gold Industry Company" (聖石金業公司) concerning allegations of illegal fundraising through investment-linked gold contracts. Prosecutors from the Taipei District Prosecutors Office, in coordination with the Criminal Investigation Bureau and police forces across Taiwan, conducted extensive searches on November 1st, targeting more than 50 of the company's branches. Company representatives, including its head, Qiu Yan-yu (邱嬿妤), and department manager, Cai Zi-xu (蔡子緒), were taken in for questioning. Investigators also seized cash, bank deposits, and other assets suspected to be linked to the alleged fraudulent activities.

In a related development, the Hsinchu City Police Bureau issued a statement addressing a donation of a police patrol vehicle by Holy Stone Gold Industry Company received in July. The company had reportedly donated a Toyota Granvia luxury van, valued between NT$1.85 million and NT$2 million, for police use. The Hsinchu City Police Bureau emphasized that the donation process was conducted in accordance with the "Hsinchu City Government and its Affiliated Agencies and Schools' Regulations for Accepting Donated Property." They confirmed that approval was sought from the Hsinchu City Government on April 25th, prior to the donation, and that the entire process was legal and transparent.

The National Police Agency has stated that this case will serve as a reminder for all police agencies to adhere strictly to relevant laws, including the "Public Interest Fundraising Act" (公益勸募條例), when accepting donations. They stressed the importance of carefully vetting donors and understanding their backgrounds to ensure that social resources are utilized appropriately for the public good.