A transnational fraud ring led by Chinese and Thai nationals has been dismantled in Bangkok after scamming victims out of millions of baht through a fake photo promotion scheme.
Arrested near a shopping mall on Phahon Yothin Road on Thursday, May 22, were 29-year-old Di Tian Shaanxi and 44-year-old Li Shengyou, both Chinese nationals, along with three Thai accomplices. Police confiscated 3 million baht in cash, believed to be proceeds from their operation.
According to Police Major General Natthasak Chaonasai, deputy commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, the group used social media to lure victims by offering to “promote” their uploaded photos with the promise of rewards. Once victims engaged, they were encouraged to invest in a fraudulent trading platform called STI Currency Market, which falsely promised high returns.
When victims attempted to withdraw their earnings, they were told they had violated the platform’s terms and were forced to pay extra fees — a deceptive tactic designed to extract more money.
“So far, at least seven victims have reported losses totaling over 2.4 million baht,” Natthasak said. “The scheme preyed on people’s dreams of easy money and used emotional manipulation to build trust.”
Following complaints, a focused investigation led to the arrests. Authorities emphasized that this scam reflects a common evolution in online fraud — starting with harmless promotions and escalating into full-scale investment deception.
“All five suspects are in custody and face charges of fraud and money laundering,” the police confirmed.
Investigators continue to seek additional victims and possible members of the fraud network.
In a related development, three Thai bank employees have been arrested in Pattaya for allegedly helping a Chinese-operated scam ring launder 2.2 billion baht. These employees reportedly allowed 15 Chinese nationals posing as tourists to open multiple bank accounts, which were quickly emptied before the suspects fled the country.
Authorities are urging the public to be cautious of online schemes that promise unrealistic financial returns and to verify all investment platforms before engaging.
