A 42-year-old Japanese national was arrested in Hua Hin district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, on March 23 around 2 p.m. for multiple criminal charges, including fraud in Thailand and an outstanding assault warrant in Japan.
Investment Scam Worth 10M Baht
Authorities arrested Kaneda following an investigation by Thai immigration police. He was wanted under a Southern Bangkok Criminal Court warrant for allegedly defrauding Thai and Japanese investors in a cannabis and business investment scam, causing damages of approximately 10 million baht (US$294,245).
Kaneda reportedly used forged documents and misrepresented Japanese companies operating in Thailand to deceive investors.
Wanted in Japan for Violent Assault
Further investigation, in coordination with the Japanese Embassy in Thailand, confirmed Kaneda’s identity as the suspect wanted in Japan for a 2017 assault on a fellow Japanese citizen.
The attack took place on Sukhumvit 49/13, leaving the victim with serious injuries, including a broken jaw and a fractured second molar. The victim later returned to Japan and filed charges, leading to an arrest warrant in Japan.
Links to Criminal Organization & Human Trafficking
During Kaneda’s arrest, police discovered evidence linking him to an ongoing criminal organization in Thailand. Authorities found:
Video clips and conversations related to ransom demands
Threats of violence
Potential involvement in human trafficking and the organ trade
Legal Proceedings Underway
Kaneda, who last entered Thailand on September 19, 2024, via Don Mueang International Airport, admitted to being the person named in the warrant.
He was taken to Thung Maha Mek Police Station for further legal proceedings, and authorities continue investigating his criminal network.
