Thailand homeowners sue contractors for 10 million baht fraud (video)
A group of aggrieved homeowners has taken legal action against a pair of contractors accused of fraudulently accepting payments for construction projects and then abandoning them. The contractors are also alleged to have forged receipts for building materials, resulting in damages exceeding 10 million baht.
A 47 year old man, Thanapol Keerasitsert, accompanied by more than 10 other victims, reported the incident to the Crime Suppression Division (CSD). The accused, Nuttanan and Thidapha, a married couple, reportedly deceived the group by accepting contracts to build and renovate homes. However, after receiving the initial payments, they allegedly neglected the projects. Adding to the grievance, they are said to have created fake receipts for construction material purchases.
Thanapol expressed that he initially engaged with the contractors through a Facebook page where they advertised their construction services. His home was being built on land that was difficult to access, and most contractors had quoted higher prices due to these conditions. The couple assured him they could handle the job, leading to a contract agreement.
After signing the contract, the contractors began work. Once the progress reached about 20 to 30%, they claimed the first payment for labour. However, they soon left only two or three workers on site, who eventually abandoned the job. Upon investigation, it emerged that the workers had not been paid, leading to the cessation of work.
“Attempts to contact the contractors yielded no response. They became evasive and blocked all communication channels.”
Thanapol later discovered many others were similarly affected, with some losing their entire savings, hoping to build their dream homes, only to be left with unfinished projects and debts.
A 43 year old woman, Sirivilai Tangsaengchan, shared her experience, stating that the contractors presented her with a transfer slip for 30,000 baht for building materials. However, upon verifying with the supplier, she found the slip was fake, with the actual purchase amounting to just over 10,000 baht.
The supplier confirmed they were not involved in the scheme and lodged a police report for record-keeping. Despite her repeated attempts to resolve the issue, the contractors blocked her contact, mirroring the experiences of others.
Another victim, 44 year old Paphassiri Pannapornpich, highlighted the couple’s deceptive practices since 2019. Whenever their fraud was exposed, they would relocate, change phone numbers, and alter their Facebook page, thus evading legal repercussions.
“They have become confident in their ability to deceive others, focusing on securing substantial initial payments before disappearing.”
Additional accounts from former workers revealed that any court summons sent to the contractors were disregarded, with instructions to dispose of or destroy the documents, reported KhaoSod.
The police have begun taking statements from the victims to compile evidence for further action. The case is now under review by senior officers for potential legal proceedings.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Bangkok Post reports celebrity lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd and his wife face serious fraud and money laundering charges, with their lawyer denying any intent to flee during their arrest en route to a temple. (read more)
- House Condo Lawyer highlights the prevalence of property fraud in Thailand, particularly involving fellow nationals posing as legitimate professionals, urging foreign buyers to exercise caution and consult licenced lawyers to avoid costly mistakes. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What drives contractors to engage in fraudulent schemes despite legal risks?
The lure of quick financial gain and perceived ease of evasion may outweigh potential repercussions.
How do fraudulent contractors exploit online platforms for their schemes?
They attract victims through appealing advertisements and assurances, leveraging anonymity and the reach of social media.
Why might victims of construction fraud face challenges in recovering their losses?
Fraudsters often disappear, leaving legal complexities and financial burdens for victims to navigate alone.
What measures could prevent construction fraud similar to this case?
Stricter vetting processes, robust legal frameworks, and increased consumer awareness could deter fraudulent activities.
How might repeated fraud exposure affect a community’s trust in local contractors?
Persistent fraud erodes trust, leading to reluctance to hire local services and impacting genuine businesses.
