Dispute over betrothal gift lands woman in detention

A woman in Heze, Shandong province, was detained for 15 days after failing to return a 300,000 yuan ($42,000) betrothal gift, according to local media reports.

The man, surnamed Wei, claims he gave the money to the woman, surnamed Ma, in March 2023 as a betrothal gift after meeting her through a matchmaking service. However, the relationship soured soon after, with Wei accusing Ma of emotional abuse and demanding a car worth over 200,000 yuan.

Following a failed attempt to reconcile through mediation, Wei sought legal action. A settlement agreement was reached where Ma agreed to return the money and jewelry in installments. When Ma failed to make the first payment by May 1, Wei's lawyer filed an enforcement request with the court.

Ma reportedly disputes Wei's account, claiming the breakup stemmed from his actions and that the betrothal gift should not be returned.

The Yuncheng County People's Court detained Ma for 15 days on May 9 to compel compliance with the settlement. She has since returned 60,000 yuan.