PHUKET, Thailand (Jan 12, 2025) – Phuket police have cracked down on a massive 22 million baht scam, arresting a suspect accused of helping a criminal gang by creating mule accounts for a fake cryptocurrency platform. The scam targeted unsuspecting victims, with the con artists impersonating a well-known politician to lure people into fraudulent investments.
The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) revealed that the scam was spearheaded by Prachya, who set up the fraudulent bank accounts that were later used to launder money. Prachya was arrested on January 9 in Koh Kaew after police obtained an arrest warrant from the Thanyaburi Provincial Court. Further investigation led to additional warrants from Saem Dam and Pathum Thani City police stations.
During his interrogation, Prachya admitted to having a criminal record, which made it difficult for him to find legitimate employment. He was eventually lured into working for an online gambling syndicate, where he was paid 800 baht per bank account for each one he opened. In total, Prachya opened seven accounts, all of which were later used for fraudulent activities.
Prachya now faces multiple charges, including public fraud, importing falsified data into computer systems, and aiding in the illicit use of bank accounts and electronic cards.
The CCIB is continuing its investigation into the fraud ring and is determined to bring all those involved to justice, ensuring they face the full consequences of their actions.
Meanwhile, in a separate operation last week, Thai police uncovered a high-tech electricity theft scheme in Chon Buri, where nearly 1,000 bitcoin mining machines were illegally using stolen electricity worth hundreds of millions of baht. The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) and the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) worked together to expose the operation.
