Aussie buyers lose millions in Phuket condo scam

Two Australian men have filed a fraud complaint against the company behind The Peaks Residences project in Phuket after shelling out over 5 million baht for a dream condo that never materialised. Despite winning a civil court case, they are yet to see a single baht in compensation, sparking outrage and calls for justice.

On September 4, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) confirmed that officers received the complaint against Kata Beach Company, the owner of the troubled development. The Australians, left high and dry after the project collapsed, urge other victims to come forward.

“If anyone has been affected by this project, please report it. This will help expand the case and ensure fair treatment for all.”

The two Aussies had initially filed their complaint with Kamala Police Station on Tuesday, September 3, revealing they paid over 5 million baht for a unit but never received it. Their court victory seemed promising, but the company has so far evaded compensation payouts. Investigations by the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) uncovered a deeper scandal: Kata Beach Company had sold land without proper titles and illegally obtained building permits, making it impossible to finish construction.

Under Thai law, condominium developers must build on land with proper titles, a rule Kata Beach ignored. When the project’s permit was revoked, they offered buyers alternative properties. However, the promised refunds never materialised, leaving victims out of pocket and furious.

The CIB warned that developers must face the consequences.

“Consumer protection laws will hold them accountable for failing to deliver properties.”

Investigations continue as more buyers come forward, and Thai police vow to protect victims, regardless of nationality, reported KhaoSod English.

In related news, a man from Phuket was apprehended in Mae Hong Son for allegedly duping over 40 unsuspecting victims in an elaborate hotel booking scam. With damages estimated to be a staggering 800,000 baht, this cyber criminal’s web of lies has left a trail of frustrated tourists in its wake.