On July 8th, Jiangning police publicly revealed the results of their investigation into a man named Jiao, 38 years old, who disguised himself as a woman under the alias “Hong Bi.”
Jiao invited 1,691 men to meet him at an apartment in Nanjing.

Since late 2022, Jiao had moved into a residential complex in Jiangning.
He invested heavily in wigs, makeup, dresses, and a vanity table.
He created a Weibo account under the name “Hong Bi,” using a heavily edited profile picture.
He claimed to be a divorced woman living alone, seeking a sincere partner.

Every morning, Jiao began his day at 5 a.m.
He spent two hours carefully applying makeup, wearing a long wig, and layering powder.
He then filmed short videos cooking, tending plants, and folding clothes.
These clips portraying the life of a “dutiful wife” quickly attracted thousands of single men.

Jiao actively contacted these men, sending sweet messages, sharing family stories, asking about their health, and offering cooking tips.
When the relationship grew closer, he invited the victims to his home.
He asked them to bring small gifts such as toilet paper, cooking oil, or coffee.
He never requested money or bank transfers, which earned him the victims’ absolute trust.

Over three years, Jiao meticulously scheduled visits, assigning each man a specific time slot to avoid encounters between them.
Some men, despite discovering the deception, continued visiting out of curiosity and even brought friends along.

At the end of June, someone secretly recorded a video and posted it online, making “Hong Bi” the center of public attention.
On July 5th, Jiangning police raided the apartment and seized wigs, silicone, six mobile phones, and a notebook with nearly 1,700 names.
Authorities confirmed Jiao was only 38 years old, not the “60-year-old uncle” as rumors had spread.

During the investigation, Jiao admitted he once had a wife who passed away, and his child lived abroad.
He said he always felt lonely and wanted to be cared for and loved.
Every day, Jiao patiently transformed himself, wearing wigs, false eyelashes, dresses, and high heels, practicing a female voice for hours.

On social media, he built the image of a “capable lady,” frequently updating photos of his daily life.
Cleaning staff in the building recalled that Jiao once gave them fruit and described him as a “kind woman.”

When meeting in person, some men realized the truth but still maintained the relationship.
Others withdrew, while some returned multiple times.
Although no money was involved, Jiao maintained the rule that visitors must bring gifts—essential items like milk, cooking oil, or coffee.

Some visitors shared their experiences on forums, causing the “Hong Bi” topic to spread widely across social media in China.

Legal experts noted that if Jiao knowingly had a sexually transmitted disease and still engaged in sexual activities, he could face criminal prosecution under Articles 114 and 115 of the Chinese Criminal Code.
Penalties range from three to ten years in prison, with severe cases resulting in life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Additionally, sharing videos exposing involved individuals violates personal privacy laws and could lead to prosecution.

Psychologists explained that many victims were drawn by Jiao’s attention and care.
They accepted vague boundaries in the relationship and continued contact even after knowing his true gender.

The case remains under investigation.
Electronic devices seized are being examined to determine the exact number of victims.
Nanjing authorities have set up a hotline to receive related complaints.
The official results are expected to be announced by the end of August.

This scandal has deeply shocked the local community and raised discussions about loneliness, deception, and trust in the digital age.

The “Hong Bi” case highlights complex psychological and social dynamics.
Many victims were vulnerable men seeking companionship and affection.
Jiao’s elaborate disguise and nurturing behavior created an illusion of intimacy and trust.

The victims’ willingness to maintain contact despite discovering the truth reflects human needs for connection and acceptance.
It also exposes how easily people can be manipulated when emotional needs are unmet.

Social stigma and shame surrounding loneliness and failed relationships may have contributed to the victims’ silence and reluctance to expose the truth earlier.

The case raises important questions about legality and ethics.
While no direct financial fraud was involved, the deception itself caused emotional harm.

If Jiao knowingly exposed others to health risks, criminal liability applies.
Moreover, unauthorized filming and sharing of private videos breach privacy rights.

Authorities face the challenge of balancing the victims’ protection with the public’s right to information.

The scandal quickly became a hot topic on social media platforms.
Netizens expressed shock, disbelief, and sympathy for the victims.

Some criticized the victims for being gullible, while others emphasized the need for empathy.
Discussions about loneliness, mental health, and the impact of social media on relationships gained momentum.

Responsible journalism is essential to avoid sensationalism and respect the dignity of those involved.

The “Hong Bi” scandal serves as a warning about the dangers of online deception and the importance of mental health support.

Communities and authorities should promote awareness about safe online interactions.
Support services for lonely and vulnerable individuals must be strengthened.

Legal frameworks need updating to address new forms of digital deception and protect victims effectively.

The “Hong Bi” scandal in Nanjing is a complex story of loneliness, deception, and human vulnerability.
Jiao’s elaborate disguise and manipulation affected nearly 1,700 men, many of whom sought love and companionship.

As investigations continue, the case highlights the need for compassion, legal clarity, and social support to prevent similar incidents.

It reminds us that behind every headline are real people with emotions and lives deeply impacted by betrayal.

The hope is that lessons from this scandal will lead to better protections and understanding in an increasingly digital world.