In Pattaya, numerous banks have witnessed long queues of Chinese customers withdrawing money, attracting widespread attention. Photos from the scene show crowds at the bank entrances, with lines extending from the counters to the streets, a highly unusual sight.
It is reported that many Chinese clients recently received notifications from banks stating that their local accounts in Thailand had been frozen, and they need to visit the bank in person with their passports and valid visas to carry out the necessary procedures. According to bank regulations, customers can withdraw a maximum of 50,000 Thai Baht per day. If the limit is exceeded, proof of funds and related documents must be provided, and the bank card must be cancelled.
Witnesses on social media commented that over the past two days, many banks in Pattaya have been filled from morning to evening with Chinese people waiting to handle their transactions. Some banks have specifically arranged for Chinese translators to assist with communication. Some Chinese students in Thailand also mentioned that they have received reminders from banks advising them to empty their account balances and close their accounts as soon as possible to avoid risks.
This "account freezing wave" is suspected to be related to a transnational telecommunication fraud and money laundering case. Preliminary information indicates that some suspects entered Thailand on tourist visas and opened accounts in local banks for spending, currency exchange, and transactions with Chinese merchants. Since some ordinary users had transactions with these suspicious accounts, they have also been included in the investigation, leading to the freezing of their accounts.
Chutima Suthikulpanich, President of the Pattaya Tourism and Commerce Association, stated that the number of Chinese tourists has already decreased due to visa and exchange rate issues, and such incidents, if not handled properly, could further impact tourist confidence. She called for the banking system to standardize information release standards, clearly explain the reasons for freezing and the procedures, to avoid misunderstandings and panic among customers.
Chutima also pointed out that bank staff should enhance communication with foreign customers, proactively explain policy changes and account handling mechanisms, and closely monitor accounts that exceed daily withdrawal limits or have frequent transactions, to clarify the source of funds.
She suggested that in the future, when opening bank accounts for foreigners, the screening threshold should be raised, especially for those opening accounts for purposes such as buying property or investing, and they should be required to submit formal property contracts or other legal documents to prevent money laundering from the source and protect the stability of Thailand's financial system and the legal rights of international tourists.
