By Khaosod English
On May 7, 2024, authorities from Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in collaboration with the FBI, announced the capture of 37-year-old American fugitive Mr. Selva. The arrest follows his flight from the United States, where he was facing multiple charges including kidnapping, fraud, forced sexual assault, and trafficking for sexual exploitation. Selva was apprehended in a condominium in Bangkok’s Bang Phlat district.
Selva, an American citizen of Asian descent, had been wanted by U.S. authorities for serious criminal activities, including sex trafficking and kidnapping. The U.S. District Court for Oregon had issued a warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear for his sentencing. He had been convicted of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, a crime carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. In total, Selva faced 11 separate charges relating to human trafficking and unlawful sexual activities.
Before fleeing the U.S., Selva had a criminal history involving sexual assault and battery. The authorities suspect he fled to Thailand in February 2024, entering the country on a tourist visa. Despite being on the run, Selva’s violent behavior and past crimes prompted both U.S. and Thai officials to track him down.
The arrest was made possible through coordination between the U.S. Embassy, FBI agents, and Thai authorities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the Attorney General. The joint operation was initiated after Selva was identified living in a condominium in the Bang Phlat area, Bangkok. He had been actively evading capture, frequently changing his residence and staying at various hotels or apartments for short periods.
Police reports indicate that Selva had been visiting entertainment venues around Bangkok, often targeting both Thai and foreign women. Authorities grew concerned that he might continue his violent activities in Thailand, where he had reportedly used weapons in past offenses. As a result, the joint operation was swiftly planned, leading to Selva’s arrest on May 6, 2024, just 10 days after authorities were tipped off about his location.
Now in custody, Selva faces an extradition process to bring him back to the U.S. for trial. Once in Oregon, he will be prosecuted for his involvement in human trafficking and other serious crimes. His capture highlights the continued efforts of international law enforcement agencies to track down and bring criminals to justice, no matter where they try to hide.
The case is a significant victory for both Thai and U.S. authorities and demonstrates the global cooperation between countries to combat human trafficking and sexual exploitation.