In Pattaya, Thailand, officers from the Investigation Division of the Tourist Police, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Kritporn Saengsura, have arrested two women accused of operating fraudulent Facebook pages for luxury resorts in the area. The suspects, identified only as Ms. Hattaya, 30, and Ms. Sirilak, 27, were wanted on charges of fraud, with arrest warrants issued by the Criminal Court and Nakhon Pathom Provincial Court, respectively.
The duo created fake Facebook pages for a well-known resort on Koh Larn, tricking tourists into paying deposits for room reservations. Once they received the payments, they promptly blocked the victims and severed all communication, leaving many travelers duped and damaging the reputation of the tourism industry.
In response to numerous complaints, the Tourist Police launched an investigation to gather evidence, leading to the first suspect’s arrest in Sri Racha District, Chonburi Province, while the second was apprehended in Mueang District, Samut Prakan Province.
Pol. Lt. Col. Kritporn highlighted that these arrests are part of a broader initiative spearheaded by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phuekam, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau. This crackdown aims to combat illegal activities and ensure the safety of tourists during the high season, ultimately protecting their lives and property while enhancing the overall image of Thailand’s tourism industry.