Taiwanese fugitive Lin Bingwen, a figure tied to underground gambling and financial networks, was shot dead in Cambodia, ending a years-long manhunt that spanned several countries and drew widespread attention in Taiwan.

The killing took place on the night of March 23 in Sihanoukville, a coastal city known for its concentration of casino activity. Authorities said multiple gunmen carried out the attack on a road in District 1, describing it as a planned operation. Reports indicate three to four assailants opened fire before fleeing the scene, leaving Lin with multiple gunshot wounds. He was later pronounced dead after being taken to a hospital.

Investigators cited by Asia Gaming Brief said Lin was struck 29 times during the attack, which occurred around 10 p.m. while he was outside his residence. Cambodian police have launched a manhunt, though officials have released limited details and have not confirmed a motive.

Fugitive linked to major financial crime case

Lin, also known by the nickname “The Eel,” had been wanted in Taiwan in connection with a large-scale money laundering and underground banking operation tied to the so-called “88 Club” scandal. The case involved a network accused of facilitating approximately NT$21.7 billion ($680 million) in illicit financial flows linked to illegal online gambling.

Authorities alleged that Lin operated PGtalk, a payment platform used to move funds within the network. The system was connected to businessman Kuo Che-min, who was extradited to Taiwan in 2023 and later sentenced to nearly 12 years in prison. Investigators also seized assets including cryptocurrency holdings and billions of New Taiwan dollars.

The scandal extended beyond financial crimes, implicating senior law enforcement officials and triggering a major corruption investigation. More than two dozen officers faced disciplinary action after being linked to the club, which functioned as an exclusive venue for influential figures in business, politics, and law enforcement.

Lin himself had been indicted in 2023 but fled while on bail after repeatedly failing to attend court hearings. Authorities revoked his NT$3 million bail and issued a warrant for his arrest in late 2024. Taiwan’s Criminal Investigation Bureau later confirmed his death in Cambodia.

Background in gambling and organized crime

Lin’s criminal history stretched back years before the 88 Club case. He was associated with organized crime groups in New Taipei City and became involved in sports betting scandals, including the 2007 “Black Rice Incident,” which shook Taiwan’s professional baseball league.

During that episode, he and associates were accused of bribing players to manipulate game outcomes while placing bets against their own team. The case resulted in criminal convictions and led to the collapse of the franchise involved. Lin was found guilty of fixing games and received a prison sentence that was later commuted to a fine.

He later moved to Macau, where he entered the VIP junket sector, working with high-roller gambling operations that handled large volumes of money. As regulatory scrutiny increased in the region, figures linked to such operations shifted toward less transparent financial structures, including underground banking and third-party payment systems.

Life in Cambodia and unanswered questions

After leaving Taiwan, Lin’s whereabouts remained uncertain for some time. Investigators initially believed he had traveled to the United States or Japan before confirming his presence in Cambodia. He eventually settled in Sihanoukville, where he was reportedly involved in casino and hotel investments with Chinese partners.

The city has become known as a center for both licensed and unlicensed gambling, as well as online scam operations and informal financial networks. Authorities have frequently identified it as a hub for cross-border illicit activities, making it a destination for individuals seeking to operate outside stricter regulatory environments.

Despite being on the run, Lin remained active on social media. He denied fleeing justice, citing “personal reasons” for his absence and stating that “I will decide when I return.” He also drew attention by making remarks directed at political figures in Taiwan.

Cambodian authorities are examining whether the killing was connected to his business dealings, alleged money laundering activities, or disputes within criminal networks. The method of the attack, described as targeted and coordinated, has raised suspicions of a planned execution linked to financial or organized crime conflicts.

The investigation remains ongoing, and while some reports indicate that suspects may have been detained, officials have yet to announce confirmed arrests or establish a definitive motive.