Combating Online Scams : 83 Thai nationals arrested in online scam cases

A total of 947 Thai nationals, including 529 men and 418 women, have been arrested for their involvement in online scams and gambling activities in border areas of Shan and Kayin states since October 5, 2023.

In the latest case, 83 Thai nationals were arrested at Yuwarat Hotel in Tachileik Township in Shan State, on October 31. Security forces also seized 23 all-in-one computers, 40 laptops and 141 mobile phones. Investigations revealed that the suspects targeted Thai citizens by impersonating employees of Thailand's Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), using fake LINE accounts, official notices and mobile applications to steal money.

The government is continuing investigations, taking legal action and coordinating with relevant countries to repatriate foreign nationals. Authorities have also called on the public to report online scam and illegal gambling activities and cooperate in efforts to combat such crimes.