A 69-year-old man from Taoyuan, Taiwan, narrowly lost almost all of his life savings after his hotel room was broken into during a solo trip to Hualien — a journey he undertook after being diagnosed with stage three colon cancer.
According to ETtoday News, the man, surnamed Zhang, travelled alone by train to Hualien on Jan 14 and checked into a hotel in Hualien city. With no wife or children, Zhang said he decided to fulfil a personal wish by travelling while he still could.
Out of fear that his home might be targeted by burglars, Zhang carried nearly all of his savings with him in cash and gold, totalling close to NT$1 million (about RM130,000).
Tragedy struck on the first day of his stay when Zhang briefly left his hotel room to take a shower and forgot to lock the door. In a span of just over 10 minutes, his bag containing all his valuables was stolen.
Zhang immediately reported the theft to the police. Despite the devastating loss, he remained composed, telling officers that he was already battling a serious illness and that money was ultimately replaceable.
Police launched an investigation and reviewed CCTV footage around the hotel, quickly identifying a suspect, a man surnamed Pan. Authorities said the suspect had noticed Zhang carrying a heavy bag and followed him, waiting for an opportunity.
When Zhang left his room unlocked, the suspect allegedly entered, stole the bag, and fled. Investigations revealed that Pan later changed transport methods multiple times and even bought a vehicle in Taoyuan before returning to Hualien with his wife, unaware that police were already tracking him.
The couple was arrested upon re-entering Hualien city. Police recovered the stolen cash and gold, along with mobile phones, illegal drugs, and other evidence.
As Zhang was left without money and unable to return home, police assisted him by providing a train ticket back to Taoyuan.
The case is being investigated for aggravated theft, possession of stolen property, money laundering offences, and drug-related violations. Police also reminded the public to remain vigilant and secure hotel room doors and valuables at all times.
