Bloody hell. They took them to the cleaners for close to half a million dollars over a three year period. Wouldn't be surprised if the money has disappeared or has been well hidden in anticipation of this moment. Going on TV was a good move.
for anyone thinking of "investing" with real estate here you just need to agree a deposit and a date for exchange of deeds. None of these monthly payments should be expected. Don't buy and develop with the same company. Buy the land in a partner's name if you must, and hire a contractor once the property is the name of someone you trust. Simple stuff really but if you leave the details to a naïve and easily influenced Thai partner, the results, as we can see, can be devastating.