Dealership owner arrested for selling cars with outstanding finance

A car dealership owner in Prawet has been arrested for selling second-hand cars with outstanding finance which lacked registration books, causing damages worth 15 to 20 million baht. Over 40 victims reported the scam to the Prawet Police Station.

Today, July 2, Police Lieutenant General Thiti Saengsawang, along with other senior officers, ordered the arrest of the dealership owner, 32 year old Sirichai following an arrest warrant issued by the Phra Khanong Criminal Court yesterday.

Sirichai faces charges of public fraud and introducing falsified or distorted computer data that could harm the public. He was apprehended in front of a restaurant on Srinakarin Road in Samut Prakan.

The scheme involved Sirichai posting advertisements for used cars on an online marketplace. The prices were set at 20,000 to 40,000 baht lower than the market price ranges. Transactions took place at his used car centre in Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok.

Sirichai claimed the cars were auctioned from finance companies and promised to deliver the registration documents within 15 to 30 days, offering 10,000 baht compensation if delayed beyond 30 days. However, victims struggled to contact him after their purchases, and when the promised documents were not delivered, they promptly reported the matter to the police.

Despite over 40 individuals suffering losses amounting to 15 to 20 million baht, Sirichai denied all charges during his arrest and refused to make any statements. He has been handed over to the Prawet Police Station for further legal proceedings.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Teeradech commented on the case, highlighting the significant impact on the victims, who ended up with unregistered vehicles. He stressed the emotional and financial strain on those affected, many of whom had saved diligently to purchase the cars.

He advised prospective buyers to purchase second-hand vehicles from reputable dealers, check the seller’s background, and verify all documents before completing any transactions. Additionally, Teeradech recommended consulting industry insiders to avoid falling prey to similar scams, reported KhaoSod.