Korean Loan Shark Ring Busted in Pattaya Luxury Villa
PATTAYA, Thailand – What began as a rescue mission for a possible kidnapping victim turned into a full-blown raid on an international loan shark operation run out of a luxury pool villa.
More than 50 tourist police officers stormed the high-end home after the South Korean embassy alerted authorities about a person allegedly being held against their will.
Inside, police found 22 Korean men, numerous computers, and over 40 mobile phones believed to be part of a sophisticated online loan network operating back in South Korea. Authorities believe the group used Thailand as a base to manage and facilitate illegal money lending schemes via the internet.
Suspect Leaps from 2nd Floor
As police surrounded the home, one suspect leapt from the second floor in an attempt to escape, suffering serious injuries. He was quickly apprehended and treated under custody.
Charges and Immigration Violations
Officials are preparing to charge the group with “joint operation of a criminal enterprise” under the charge of “Aung Yi,” a local legal term often referring to organized group crimes. Police are also investigating their immigration status, with concerns many of the men may have entered the country illegally or overstayed their visas.
Neighbors Sounded the Alarm
Locals told reporters that the villa had been rented by Korean-Chinese nationals for over four months. During that time, residents reported hearing frequent arguments, shouting, and cries for help, but until now, no formal complaint had led to police intervention.
International Crime Hub?
The case adds to growing concerns that transnational criminal networks are using Thailand, especially tourist hotspots like Pattaya, as operational bases for online scams, cyber fraud, and loan sharking.
Authorities are now expanding the investigation, including coordinating with Interpol and South Korean police, to determine the full scope of the operation and whether other similar networks are active in the region.
