PHUKET — A 36-year-old Russian man has been arrested at Phuket International Airport, accused of playing a key role in a high-tech fraud network responsible for scamming thousands across Thailand. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was apprehended at approximately 1:50 p.m. in the arrivals hall during a coordinated sting operation by Phuket Airport Immigration’s Investigation Team and Surat Thani Police.
The man faces multiple charges including public fraud, falsifying data in computer systems, and knowingly enabling others to exploit his online banking accounts. Authorities believe he is connected to a wider cybercrime syndicate operating out of Thailand.
Following his arrest, the suspect was quickly transferred to Surat Thani City Police Station for further questioning and legal proceedings.
This arrest follows a significant cybercrime crackdown earlier this year. In February, Thai police dismantled a major money-laundering syndicate based in Phuket. The operation, named “Hunting Down the Island and Breaking Up the International Terrorism Capital,” resulted in the arrest of six suspects, including three Taiwanese nationals. The syndicate was linked to illegal gambling websites such as GoatBet178, Icb365, and Lavaslot777, and employed a complex financial system using platforms like tsn7.yourpay and the Tsnupay mobile app to launder money.
Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwpaen, head of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), led the efforts against these high-tech criminal groups.
According to Pol. Col. Kritsada Manawongsakun, head of Region 5 at the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD), online scams and fraudulent calls in Phuket have surged dramatically.
- In 2022, there were 1,365 reported victims, with losses totaling 10.9 million baht.
- In 2023, cases nearly tripled to 3,538 victims, with financial damages reaching 18.8 million baht.
- So far in 2024, the number of victims has exploded to 5,510, with losses exceeding 413 million baht.
Authorities have pledged to intensify their crackdown on cybercrime syndicates, aiming to protect residents and tourists from the growing digital threat on the island.
