Cyber police arrest agent who defrauded actors of 10 million baht

Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) officer apprehended a fraudulent modelling agent who deceived aspiring actors into transferring more than 10 million baht, promising them roles alongside famous artists. Victims were lured into transferring money on multiple occasions, with one individual alone losing over 8 million baht in 42 transactions.

On July 31, numerous victims reported the scam to CCIB chief Chatpandakant Klaiklueang, detailing how they were tricked into paying large sums for opportunities to work with well-known celebrities. The total amount defrauded exceeded 10 million baht (US$292,000), with various victims coming forward to share their stories.

One victim’s father reported that he was misled by the fraudulent agent, who promised his child a role in an advertisement alongside Lisa from BLACKPINK. He ended up losing 8.7 million baht (US$254,000) in the process.

Yesterday, September 2, Vorawat Watnakornbancha, the Commissioner of the CCIB, instructed Chatpandakant and Rachatachok Liwanichkul, an investigative officer, along with Wacharapong Sikon, a sub-inspector, to interrogate Namphueng, the agent behind the scheme.

Namphueng, who had deceptively presented herself as a talent scout capable of securing acting roles with famous artists, surrendered herself to the police at the CCIB headquarters, reported KhaoSod.

The police have charged Namphueng with fraud, including dishonestly deceiving others by providing false information and importing false data into computer systems. She is set to face legal proceedings following the charges.

In related news, police apprehended a company executive accused of fraudulently selling non-existent tours, leaving customers stranded and causing an estimated 8 million baht in damages. Despite the allegations, the executive denies the tour fraud charges but admits to receiving a monthly salary of 100,000 baht.

On July 9, the Commander of the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD), Police Major General Witthaya Sriprasertphap, led a team to arrest 36 year old Thapnon. The arrest was made in Phop Phra district, Tak province, under an arrest warrant issued by the Criminal Court on June 28.