Bangkok: The National Police Chief has intensified efforts to arrest three Chinese nationals linked to a call center scam in the capital, expanding proactive measures to combat fraudulent activities.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Maj. Gen. Teeradej Thamsutee, Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau and Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Police, disclosed that Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, has mandated the Metropolitan Police Bureau to expedite investigations and broaden the scope to apprehend both Thai and foreign nationals involved in the scam. A recent operation led by officers from Patrol Unit 2 and the Patrol and Special Operation Division, along with NBTC officials, executed a search warrant at a residence in Chom Phon Subdistrict, Bangkok. The location was identified as a covert base for a call center gang defrauding foreigners, primarily targeting European nationals. The operation uncovered computers using fake IP addresses to perpetrate the scam, with advertisements posing as legitimate law firms to lure victims.
Police successfully arrested three Chinese nationals: Zhang Hailong, 38, Liu Chunying, 29, and Wu Zhiqiang, 32. The authorities seized four SIMBOX/GSM Gateways with 20 SIM card slots, 10 computers and laptops, 40 mobile phones, signal boosters, and other equipment. The individuals were charged under the Customs Act B.E. 2560 (2017) and the Radio Communications Act B.E. 2498 (1955) for various offenses relating to the illegal importation and possession of communication devices. They, along with the seized items, have been handed over to investigators at Phahonyothin Metropolitan Police Station for further legal proceedings.
The deputy spokesperson emphasized that the National Police Commissioner has instructed all units to enhance proactive measures against foreigners engaging in criminal activities in Thailand, particularly scam operations. The Commissioner is determined to prevent the establishment of fraud bases within the country. Key directives include the Immigration Bureau's detailed examination of foreigners entering Thailand, coordination among various police and investigative units for intensive inspections, and real-time operations to deter scams.
The crackdown on scammer gangs also requires public and private sector cooperation. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities involving foreigners, whether in residential areas or elsewhere. Pol. Maj. Gen. Theeradej expressed gratitude to the 191 police and NBTC officials for their diligent work and urged the public to report any suspicious behavior by foreigners to the 191 hotline, available 24/7.