In a heartwarming incident on the Taipei Metro, rail operator Lian Yingcheng recently found a backpack containing NT$1.5 million (approximately $48,700 USD) in cash on the Xinyi Line. It turned out to be the life-saving money for the medical expenses of the owner’s family member. After returning the money, Lian was commended by the company for his honesty and integrity.
The Taipei Metro announced in a press release today that Lian Yingcheng, a car operator, discovered a women’s backpack on the Tamsui Xinyi Line train, which astonishingly contained NT$1.5 million in cash. Following the company’s lost and found procedures, Lian successfully returned the cash to its rightful owner. What’s more fortunate is that the large sum of money was meant for the medical expenses of the owner’s family member. Lian’s honest actions were praised by everyone, and he was publicly recognized during a company management meeting, receiving the highest commendation.
“I never expected to find so much money!” This was Lian Yingcheng’s immediate reaction after the incident. “It was just another day at work, but something so unexpected happened!” Lian, who was driving a train from Beitou Station to Da’an Station, conducted a routine inspection of the train compartments upon reaching the final destination. He noticed a dark blue women’s backpack on a seat and immediately reported it to the control center using a radio. After bringing the backpack back to the office and following the company’s lost and found regulations, he discovered the NT$1.5 million cash inside.
Lian Yingcheng thought to himself that losing such a large sum of money must have caused great distress to the owner, but he was relieved to learn that the owner had already reported the loss to the police and successfully reclaimed the money. When the owner received the cash, they were overwhelmed with emotion because it was meant for their family member’s surgery expenses. Lian felt extremely gratified knowing that he hadn’t delayed the patient’s surgery schedule and felt a sense of accomplishment for assisting others – truly, helping others is the key to happiness.
Having served in the Taipei Metro for 14 years, Lian Yingcheng is dedicated to his work and enjoys challenging himself. He particularly loves the scenic views along the Tamsui Xinyi Line and finds great fulfillment in being closest to passengers during his shifts. One of the most rewarding moments for him is when he steps out of the train driver’s cabin and waves to passengers, receiving their gratitude and seeing children wave goodbye – these interactions warm his heart and motivate him while operating the metro train.