A transnational scam ring involving Thai, Myanmar, and Cambodian nationals was dismantled after allegedly defrauding a Thai woman of over 21 million baht (approximately $620,000) in a cryptocurrency scheme, with part of the funds laundered through a luxury condo purchase in Bangkok.
On October 29, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Department, Pol. Maj. Gen. Panthana Nuchanarot, detailed the case, which dates back to late 2023. The suspects reportedly operated a Facebook page called “Investor Chat Room,” where they lured victims with investment advice on high-yield stock and cryptocurrency opportunities. After the victim, Ms. Mallika, engaged in conversations on the platform, the scammers persuaded her to continue via the LINE app. Over time, they manipulated her into transferring funds into multiple accounts, sometimes sending back partial profits to strengthen her trust in the scheme. In total, Ms. Mallika transferred 21 million baht.
The investigation revealed an organized network with various roles, from financial couriers to coordinators. Cambodian national Mr. Moon and Myanmar’s Mr. Ko managed account transfers at the direction of a Burmese broker. The funds were ultimately traced to Mr. Win, a Burmese businessman in Thailand, who directed the purchase of a luxury condominium in the Rama 9 district with 10 million baht. The gang allegedly planned to resell the property quickly to a third party.
Following the investigation, the South Bangkok Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for multiple suspects. Authorities apprehended Mr. Ko in Pathum Thani province, Mr. Moon in Saraburi, Ms. San at a condo on Ratchadaphisek Road, and Ms. Thuay at Don Mueang Airport upon re-entering Thailand. Mr. Win was arrested in central Bangkok. The suspects face charges including public fraud, identity fraud, and entering false information into a computer system.
After further questioning, an additional warrant was issued for another Burmese national still under investigation. The Immigration Department has transferred the detained individuals to Bang Rak Police Station for continued investigation and to pursue the Thai associates involved.
