BANGKOK — June 27, 2025
A complex online scam operating through fake Facebook pages has been dismantled by Thai authorities, with three suspects arrested for allegedly swindling nearly 400 victims and causing over 20 million baht in damages.
Pol Maj Gen Wittaya Sriprasertphap, commander of the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), announced on Friday that three men — identified only as Korrakot, 29; Kritanai, 28; and Papontee, 30 — were taken into custody on charges of public fraud, entering false data into computer systems, and illegally using others’ electronic cards.
The suspects were apprehended in coordinated raids: Korrakot and Kritanai were arrested at a condominium in Bangkok’s Klong Toey district, while Papontee was detained at his residence in Lop Buri province.
Lavish Lifestyle Funded by Fraud
Authorities seized a trove of valuable assets believed to be purchased with illicit profits. Among the items confiscated were:
- A red C200 Coupe AMG Mercedes-Benz
- 23 mobile phones
- Six desktop computers and laptops
- A cash counting machine
- Two gold bar plates
Collectively, the seized assets are estimated at around 4 million baht.
Scam Operation Uncovered
The investigation began in February, after a bank employee reported suspicious activity. Customers across Thailand were duped into applying online for credit and debit cards through fake Facebook pages posing as legitimate financial institutions.
Using names like “Xpress Cash” or “Quick Loans,” scammers claimed that anyone, regardless of income, could get cards with no fees — if they completed a “satisfaction survey” and provided personal details.
Victims were lured into video calls via the Line app, where scammers asked them to display their banking apps on camera to “verify balances.” If victims’ balances were low, they were persuaded to transfer money into their accounts to appear financially stronger — supposedly improving their chances of approval.
Shortly after victims completed the fraudulent applications, the suspects allegedly used their card details and one-time passwords (OTPs) to make unauthorized online purchases of luxury items such as gold and electronics. Goods were delivered to pick-up points, then resold for cash.
Social Media Pages Bought from Grey Market
Investigators revealed that the gang purchased Facebook pages with large followings from grey-market groups online. These pages were rebranded with fake bank logos and tailored content to appear convincing.
The operation was sophisticated and meticulously planned, said Pol Maj Gen Wittaya. The gang leveraged social engineering tactics and technology to build trust with victims and bypass traditional banking security protocols.
Computer Dropout Alleged as Ringleader
According to police, Korrakot, who dropped out of a computer engineering program, is believed to be the ringleader. Investigators allege he orchestrated the entire scheme and used the ill-gotten profits to fund a lavish lifestyle, including the purchase of luxury vehicles and expensive goods.
The suspects are now facing multiple charges, and further investigations are ongoing to identify any additional accomplices and to trace the money trail. Authorities also plan to work with financial institutions and social media platforms to tighten safeguards against similar scams in the future.
Victims who believe they may have been affected are urged to contact the CSD hotline for assistance and to help in gathering further evidence.
