Whistleblower Arrested Over Extortion of Immigration Officer in Bangkok

Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) police arrested whistleblower Achariya Ruangratanapong on 21 April 2026 at a restaurant near Khlong Prapa road in Bangkok on charges of allegedly extorting 2.5 million baht from a former Immigration Bureau superintendent. Police said the alleged demand was linked to claims that he would not broadcast accusations concerning the alleged smuggling of Chinese suspects from an Immigration detention centre overseen by the complainant.

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According to police, the case began after the former Immigration officer filed a complaint last February, alleging that Achariya demanded the payment in exchange for withholding information in a planned live broadcast. Following the complaint, investigators gathered evidence and obtained an arrest warrant from the Criminal Court before moving to detain him. Officers also searched his residence for additional evidence.

He was then taken to the Crime Suppression Division to record the arrest and undergo questioning in line with procedures. Authorities said full details cannot yet be disclosed and will be released later by senior officials. Achariya is widely known as a whistleblower, nicknamed “Thailand’s Conan”, and is president of the Crime Victims Assistance Association founded in 2009.

Achariya has previously stated that his association assists crime victims and has worked on high-profile cases including the Klong Chan Credit Union fraud and consumer complaints over defective vehicles. His income sources and those of the association have previously been questioned, with Achariya explaining that funding comes from legal services via a separate law firm and voluntary contributions from members, as well as support from wealthy backers he says view his work as socially beneficial.

He has also said on the “Hone Krasae” programme hosted by Num Kanchai that he receives backing from supporters due to his public-interest activities. His whistleblowing activities have reportedly created many adversaries, including exposure of alleged scandals in the boxing industry and disputes involving a politician in Songkhla province facing charges linked to an online gambling website.

The ThaiNewsRoom reported that the investigation remains ongoing as police continue examining evidence collected from his residence search and earlier inquiries. Achariya remains in custody for questioning under procedural rules. Authorities have not confirmed when further details will be made public, stating that senior officials will provide updates later. Any court proceedings will depend on the outcome of the investigation and the evidence presented.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thai newsroom 22 Apr 2026