Police Region 1 officers have dismantled a transnational call centre fraud network targeting pensioners, seizing assets worth more than 14 million baht in coordinated raids across three locations in Bangkok. The operation, announced on 20 March 2026 at Pak Kret Police Station, led to the arrest of key suspects and the confiscation of cash, luxury items and financial records. Authorities say the gang deceived retired civil servants into transferring funds under false pretences. Get today's headlines by email The case dates back to September 2025, when a retired government official was contacted by fraudsters posing as finance officers from a hospital and the Comptroller General’s Department. The victim was told to complete a “pension account protection” process and submit PDPA (Personal Data Protection Act) related documentation to access salary slips. After being persuaded to share personal data via Line and follow instructions on a banking app, the victim unknowingly transferred money twice, losing more than 760,000 baht. Investigators later identified at least 20 additional victims linked to the same network, with total losses exceeding 2 million baht. Police in Nonthaburi and Pak Kret traced the funds through multiple mule accounts and the TrueMoney system before they were consolidated and forwarded to a “grey Chinese” investment group. Arrest warrants were issued for nine suspects, leading to searches at residences in Phutthamonthon Sai 3 and Phetkasem. Key arrests included Mr Xuchen Xu, a Chinese national with Thai citizenship, and a 60-year-old Thai woman, Thanthip, who were apprehended at a shopping mall in the Khlong San area while withdrawing 7 million baht in cash. Four additional Chinese suspects were also detained. Officers seized 229 items, including 10.8 million baht in cash, vehicles, branded bags and numerous bank books. Although the suspects deny the charges, police have filed multiple serious offences, including participation in a criminal association, public fraud, importing false data into a computer system and conspiracy to launder money. Authorities classify the case as part of a wider transnational organised crime operation. Pictures courtesy of Naewna Officials say the crackdown highlights ongoing risks from call centre scams exploiting personal data and digital banking systems. The case underscores the need for increased vigilance among the public, particularly retirees, who are frequently targeted by such schemes. Naewna reported that police investigations are continuing to locate remaining suspects and expand the case against associated networks. Further legal proceedings are expected as authorities pursue asset seizures and additional arrests. AQMQ5Vpzxatc6yjqQGL2G4oFgetAwcZMvpmvHz8Bepg0_GG3YGh4v9NSRQAHFMEnDTQqRbdSePxGHh97tjQCxpuSLtggggpvX2BK561Agw.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 21 Mar 2026
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