Recently, the Thai police conducted a joint operation in Bang Lamung County, Chonburi Province, successfully raiding a residential house transformed into a tele-fraud hub, arresting 19 suspects and seizing a large amount of electronic equipment. The operation was carried out by the Thai police in collaboration with the tourist police and several other departments, involving cross-border telecommunication fraud targeting Korean citizens.
Details of the Raid
The Thai police discovered and dismantled an international tele-fraud hub in a residential house in Bang Lamung County, Chonburi Province. The hub was modified into a sealed office area, specifically used for conducting telecommunication fraud. During the operation, the police seized 14 laptops, 4 desktop computers, 15 mobile phones, and a large number of network devices.
This operation was the result of collaboration among multiple departments including the tourist police, demonstrating the determination and capability of Thai law enforcement agencies to combat international crime. A total of 19 suspects were arrested at the scene, including several Korean nationals.
Origin and Preliminary Actions of the Case
The investigation began with intelligence provided by the Korean police. A 31-year-old Korean man was held captive by a tele-fraud group in Thailand and was forced to engage in fraud activities. Following the report, the Thai police successfully rescued the victim in early August on Samui Island.
After the rescue operation, the Thai police conducted the first arrest operation on August 6, capturing 8 suspects on the spot, including one Chinese national and the rest mainly Korean nationals. These preliminary actions laid the foundation for the subsequent complete dismantling of the hub.
Investigation Findings and Modus Operandi
The investigation revealed that the tele-fraud gang specifically targeted Korean citizens, involving large sums of money. The gang members used the modified residential house as their operation base, conducting remote fraud activities through professional electronic equipment.
The gang employed illegal detention to force individuals to participate in fraud, with professional and tightly organized crime methods. Victims were deprived of their freedom and forced to engage in telephone fraud, making the nature of the case particularly severe.
International Cooperation and Suspect Handling
The Thai police maintained close cooperation with the Korean police in this case. Based on intelligence sharing and coordinated actions between the two countries' police forces, the international crime hub was successfully dismantled.
The Thai police have now cancelled the visas of all foreign nationals involved in the case. Two main Korean suspects have been extradited to the Korean police for processing, while the remaining suspects will face legal proceedings in Thailand. This approach reflects the deep cooperation between the two countries in combating international crime.
Follow-up Actions and Preventive Measures
The Thai police stated that they will continue to strengthen cooperation with law enforcement agencies from various countries to persistently combat cross-border tele-fraud crimes. The police remind the public to raise their awareness and be vigilant against the risks of international tele-fraud.
The success of this operation provides experience for combating similar international crimes. The Thai police advise the public to remain alert when receiving suspicious calls or messages, and to report them to the police promptly to jointly maintain cyber security.
