Authorities have arrested a Chinese national wanted by the government of the People’s Republic of China for alleged involvement in organised gambling operations, after he was found hiding at a resort in Pattaya, Chon Buri province.
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The suspect, identified as Song Lihua, 49, was detained on 5 March by officers from The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and Immigration Bureau. He was arrested outside his room at a resort located in Soi Khao Makok 1/3 in Pattaya.
The operation followed coordination between Chinese authorities and the CIB, who were informed that Song was a key suspect facing an arrest warrant in China. He is accused of participating in illegal gambling activities and establishing a criminal network operating gambling dens in mountainous and forested areas to avoid police detection in Beijing.
Investigators allege that between 2024 and 2025, the suspect organised gambling operations with circulating funds exceeding 20 million yuan (approximately 92 million baht). Authorities say the network reportedly held gambling sessions more than 150 times, and that Song was also linked to several other criminal cases in China before fleeing the country.
Police Major General Theerachart Thirachartthammarong, commander of the Crime Suppression Division’s patrol unit, ordered the arrest operation. The team included Police Colonel Boonlue Phadungthin, deputy commander, Police Colonel Nopparat Khammak, chief of the patrol division, Police Lieutenant Colonel Pongpiti Trinikom, and officers from the Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division 4 led by Police Colonel Nopparat Jongcherdtrakul.
Following intelligence gathering and surveillance, Thai officers located the suspect at the resort in Bang Lamung. Authorities confirmed his identity before moving in to make the arrest and inform him that his permission to stay in Thailand had been revoked.
During questioning, Song reportedly denied all allegations and claimed he had no knowledge of the accusations made against him. Police said he was informed of the revocation of his visa before being taken into custody. Officials subsequently transferred him to Investigation Division 3 of the Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division for further legal processing in accordance with Thai law.
The arrest highlights ongoing cooperation between Thai and Chinese authorities in tracking fugitives who attempt to evade prosecution by leaving China. Thailand has increasingly worked with international partners to identify foreign nationals accused of transnational crimes who may attempt to hide within the country.
Daily News reported that authorities have not yet announced when the suspect may be deported or extradited to China. The case will proceed through the legal and immigration procedures required before any transfer can take place.
Pictures courtesy of Matichon
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 6 Mar 2026