Thai authorities busted $14M gambling scam in Chiang Mai
Thai police detained 17 foreign nationals in Chiang Mai on suspicion of operating a large-scale scam that defrauded over 100,000 Chinese victims of approximately US$14 million, according to CNA. A multi-agency task force led the operation, uncovering a sophisticated scam network based in a luxury villa.
Background of the raid
The raid took place at a pool villa in the Hang Dong district of Chiang Mai province. The property was reportedly used as a fully functioning scam centre, concealed by its quiet surroundings. The operation was led by Commander Krittapon Yisakorn of the Thai Provincial Police Region 5 and involved personnel from the Police Cyber Taskforce, Immigration Police, intelligence units, and technology experts. Authorities seized 10 computers and 26 mobile phones, highlighting the digital complexity of the operation.
Among those arrested were 15 Chinese nationals, who were in Thailand on tourist and student visas, and two Myanmar nationals without proper documentation. The suspects have been charged with conspiracy to defraud the public and participation in organised crime. Authorities stated that the charges reflect the scale and cross-border nature of the alleged operation.
Anatomy of the scam
According to investigators, the operation was highly structured and resembled a corporate organisation. Roles were clearly assigned, and digital tools and communication networks were used to manage the scam. Victims were contacted through various channels, including social media, text messages, and phone calls. Once contact was established, they were persuaded to invest in fraudulent schemes or participate in fake gambling platforms and were instructed to transfer money to accounts controlled by the suspects.
The group allegedly posed as 바카라 agents or investment brokers, using telecom software to mask their identities. They created fake websites and platforms and employed social engineering tactics to gain the trust of their targets. Chinese nationals living abroad were particularly targeted, with promises of access to online gambling, 바카라 deals, or secure investment opportunities. Many later discovered they had been defrauded.
The scale of the scam
The operation is believed to have extended beyond a single location, with activities spread across hotels, housing estates, and condominiums in Northern Thailand.
To avoid detection, the suspects allegedly used Thai nationals as nominees to purchase or rent properties. This tactic enabled the group to establish a local presence while reducing legal exposure. Commander Krittapon confirmed that Thai names were used to legally acquire the villa where the arrests took place.
History of similar operations in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai has witnessed several cyber fraud incidents in recent months. In December 2024, Thai Cyber Police dismantled a Chinese-run scam call centre at Baan Klang Doi Resort. A month earlier, authorities raided 11 properties across the Muang, San Sai, and San Kamphaeng districts, resulting in one of the largest equipment seizures related to scam operations in Thailand. These incidents suggest that Chiang Mai has become a recurring base for such criminal activities.
