Former bank officer arrested in Nakhon Sawan for 500k fraud
The Anti-Corruption Division of the police, in collaboration with the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission, apprehended a former state bank officer involved in defrauding locals of half a million baht. The suspect faces charges at the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Region 6 today, December 4.
Police Major General Jaroonkiat Pankaew, Deputy Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), and Pol. Maj. Gen. Prasong Chalermpan, Commander of the Police Anti-Corruption Division, directed Police Colonel Sanuwong Khongkain, Superintendent of Division 4, Police Anti-Corruption Division, along with Police Lieutenant Colonel Saiwan Chanma and Police Captain Akkharaphon Pathmanusorn, to lead the operation.
They collaborated with officials from the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission to arrest Ataporn, a former business development employee at a state bank in Nakhon Sawan province, at his residence in Ban Rai, Lat Yao district, Nakhon Sawan.
The arrest was made in compliance with the warrant issued by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Region 6, warrant number 21/2567, dated October 25, for charges including corruption in government duties, fraud, and misuse of others’ electronic cards.
Police Colonel Sanuwong revealed that between 2013 and 2024, Ataporn, while serving as a business development officer level seven at a state bank in Tha Tako district, Nakhon Sawan, engaged in numerous deceptive schemes targeting the bank’s customers.
These fraudulent activities included persuading clients to take loans on his behalf, secretly transferring clients’ funds into his account, embezzling loan funds, forging loan agreements, falsifying power of attorney documents, unlawfully charging for document processing, and tricking clients into signing loan agreements.
The victims, primarily locals, totalled seven individuals, collectively losing over 500,000 baht. This led them to file complaints with the Police Anti-Corruption Division, prompting an investigation and the subsequent issuance of an arrest warrant, said Pol. Col. Sanuwong.
“The suspect’s fraudulent activities had a significant impact on locals, who were primarily farmers with limited financial means. Their decision to come forward and report these crimes was vital in bringing the perpetrator to justice.”
The police gathered sufficient evidence to secure an arrest warrant, ultimately leading to Ataporn’s apprehension. He is now being transferred to the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Region 6, where he will face legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why is collaboration between police and anti-corruption commissions crucial in tackling financial fraud?
It enhances resource sharing, expertise, and authority, leading to more efficient investigations and increased accountability.
How can locals protect themselves from falling victim to banking fraud?
Stay informed about financial transactions, regularly monitor accounts, and promptly report suspicious activities.
What if financial institutions fail to address internal corruption effectively?
It could erode customer trust, lead to financial losses, and damage institutional reputation, necessitating stricter regulatory measures.
What measures can be implemented to prevent fraudulent activities in banking systems?
Stronger regulatory frameworks, regular audits, employee background checks, and customer education on fraud prevention.
How does addressing corruption impact the broader community and economy?
It restores public trust, protects financial security, and fosters a fair economic environment, ultimately benefiting societal welfare.