Thailand’s Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) has ordered an urgent investigation into the civil registration records of two individuals, including a Chinese national and a Thai citizen, following concerns over possible irregularities in their identity documentation. The directive comes amid a wider probe into suspected fraud involving national ID cards and residency records.
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The move follows reports involving Mr Mingchen Sun, a Chinese national who was recently involved in a car accident in Chon Buri province. Police later discovered a large cache of military-style weapons, explosives, body armour and ammunition at both his vehicle and residence. He has been arrested by authorities as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.
In a separate but related development, officials are also examining the records of Mr Chengzhao Wu, a Thai national holding a blue identification card. He is listed as having acquired Thai citizenship through a name registration process in Bang Khae district, Bangkok. Authorities have flagged his documentation for review amid concerns about potential misuse of the civil registration system.
DOPA Director-General Naruetha Kosa-sivilai has instructed Deputy Director-General Witthaya Sirinukon, head of the department’s anti-registration security task force (DOPA N.I.C.E.), to urgently verify the authenticity of both individuals’ registration histories. The review will focus on whether proper legal procedures were followed in issuing identity documents and citizenship status.
Officials have also been told to investigate any links between the two cases and broader networks suspected of exploiting Thailand’s registration system. The department stated that if fraud is confirmed, all responsible parties, including both the individuals involved and any government officials implicated, will face criminal prosecution.
Amarin reported that authorities have further ordered that any falsified or illegally obtained records be revoked and removed from the national civil registry without delay. The investigation is being treated as a matter of national security due to the potential misuse of identity systems. DOPA has confirmed it will report findings as the inquiry progresses and will take further legal action
Picture courtesy of Amarin
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 10 May 2026