Cyber police crack down on scam gang in Chon Buri
The Thai Cyber Police yesterday provided an update on the investigation into a high-profile scam involving a gang known as Ploy Phet and other victims at the Technology Crime Suppression Division headquarters in Mueang Thong Thani. This follows the arrest of 28 year old Thanawut, who impersonated police officers to extort money via video calls.
Thanawut was apprehended in Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province, on February 2, under an arrest warrant issued by the Bangkok Criminal Court (No. 153/2568) on February 1. He faces charges of fraudulently posing as another person and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
The Cyber Crime Investigation Division, in collaboration with the Division of Anti-Technology Crime and the Office of the Attorney General, is further questioning Thanawut and has pressed additional charges.
Investigations revealed Thanawut’s involvement in a call centre gang that targeted Charlotte Austin, a well-known beauty queen. Cyber Police found that Thanawut, who joined the gang on July 14, 2023, initially operated as a Line 1 caller before moving to Line 2. His role involved dressing as various officials to gain victims’ trust via video calls, receiving a 5% commission, before passing them to Line 3 for final money transfer attempts.
Thanawut reportedly began experiencing heart issues on January 23, leading to his temporary release from the gang’s control for medical treatment in Thailand. His return to Thailand through informal channels led to his arrest. Cyber Police are pursuing further investigations into related cases, including Austin’s, to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice.
In Austin’s case, police previously arrested an individual linked to mule accounts and issued warrants for a Cambodian suspect.
The investigation connected these financial transactions to another case involving a 17 year old victim. Thanawut’s role in the gang’s second line was crucial to defrauding Austin and is linked to two additional victims, with damages exceeding 9 million baht.
Cyber Police continue to explore Thanawut’s involvement in related cases, including those involving the minor and 75 other cases.
Thanawut has confessed to all charges, which include fraud, intimidation, introducing false information into computer systems, and involvement in a transnational criminal organisation.
Cyber Police are coordinating with the Division of Anti-Technology Crime to ensure comprehensive legal action is taken, reported KhaoSod.
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