December 12, 2024 – Chiang Rai – Thanawit, a man in Chiang Rai, reported being defrauded of over 415,000 baht by Angsumarin Meeboonlap, a former assistant headman in Wiang Phang Kham subdistrict. Angsumarin allegedly extorted the money under the pretense of helping Thanawit resolve probation violations. The complaint was filed at the Mae Sai Police Station on December 11.
Thanawit, accompanied by relatives, presented his case to investigative officer Angsumarin Meeboonlap. He claimed that Angsumarin, who also served as the chairman of the village security team and a volunteer probation officer, deceived him by promising to help clear his probation issues.
Thanawit revealed his legal history, which includes charges of extortion and computer-related offenses, resulting in a two-year and one-month prison sentence. After serving 11 months, he was granted early release but required to wear an electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet. Recently, he faced the possibility of returning to prison for further violations.
In his search for a solution, Thanawit turned to Angsumarin, who claimed to have connections with probation officers and offered to help resolve the situation. The initial request was for 50,000 baht to hire a lawyer, followed by another demand for 500,000 baht to cover alleged payments to probation officers and other expenses, though the legitimacy of these claims was unclear.
Over several transactions, Thanawit transferred 415,000 baht to Angsumarin. However, after receiving no updates on his case, Thanawit became suspicious and contacted the probation office directly. To his shock, he learned that no action had been taken on his behalf, which led him to believe he had been scammed.
Although Angsumarin initially promised to return the funds within a month, Thanawit received no money when the deadline passed. Instead, he was met with excuses and requests for further discussions with unnamed individuals, heightening his distress.
“I’m now facing financial problems because the money was borrowed from others, and they are demanding repayment,” Thanawit explained. “Despite my efforts, Angsumarin claims that some of the money has already been spent, yet still refuses to return the rest.”
The police have registered the complaint and are currently gathering evidence. They plan to summon Angsumarin Meeboonlap for questioning and will proceed according to the law.