Despite being corrupt, Heshen was a highly capable official in the Qing Dynasty, and he had gained the favor of Emperor Qianlong due to his abilities. Heshen had also built a vast network of connections and accumulated significant power within the imperial court. Tho Emperor Jiaqing was aware of Heshen's wrongdoing, he was unable to take any action against him while Emperor Qianlong was alive.
How do you embezzle 15 years of your country's GDP?
Wait but why was he incarcerated ?
Despite being corrupt, Heshen was a highly capable official in the Qing Dynasty, and he had gained the favor of Emperor Qianlong due to his abilities. Heshen had also built a vast network of connections and accumulated significant power within the imperial court. Tho Emperor Jiaqing was aware of Heshen's wrongdoing, he was unable to take any action against him while Emperor Qianlong was alive.