In a case that has shaken Thailand’s police credibility, seven suspects, including six rogue police officers and one civilian, were arrested on October 30 for orchestrating a fake passport investigation and attempting to extort 10 million USDT from Mr. Sai, a Chinese citizen with Vanuatu nationality. Two additional suspects, interpreters Ms. Aphatsara and Mr. Yun, remain at large.
The incident began when Mr. Sai and his family reported being visited at their home in Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan Province, by men posing as police officers. The suspects presented a fraudulent search warrant, claiming it implicated Mr. Sai in a passport forgery case. Unable to read Thai, Mr. Sai and his family believed the document’s legitimacy due to its government seal.
Using interpreters, the suspects demanded 10 million USDT to avoid further charges. When Mr. Sai refused, they confiscated all mobile devices and a computer, even threatening additional charges for alleged illegal employment of housekeepers. After further intimidation, Mr. Sai was taken to an interrogation room, where he reluctantly transferred 5.6 million baht ($165,000) in digital currency to Ms. Aphatsara’s wallet.
Following this, Ms. Aphatsara demanded an additional 700,000 baht to reveal the source of the accusations against Mr. Sai. After receiving no answers and losing significant money, Mr. Sai authorized a lawyer to investigate. Upon learning of the deception, he filed criminal charges on October 22.
Metropolitan Police and cyber police determined that 12 individuals were involved in the scheme. The arrests included several high-ranking officers from various divisions. However, Ms. Aphatsara and her husband, the interpreters, remain at large.
All detained suspects denied the charges and requested time to submit statements. They have been released on bail while the National Anti-Corruption Commission investigates, with findings expected within 30 days.