A Russian national was arrested in Chon Buri on March 19 as he attempted to withdraw cash tied to a call centre scam from an ATM. This significant development comes as Chon Buri Provincial Police crack down on scams involving foreign nationals. The gang has been linked to 198 ATM withdrawals, totalling over 4.6 million baht. Get today's headlines by email Officers observed unusual patterns, with multiple withdrawals made by foreigners at different ATMs in the Na Jomtien area. Specifically, 93 transactions amounting to 2.1 million baht were made at an ATM near Soi Na Jomtien 4, while 105 withdrawals worth 2.5 million baht occurred at another ATM nearby. This suspicious activity led to further investigations by the authorities. The arrest involved 20-year-old Russian Mark Zhambalov, who was caught in the act of withdrawing cash at an ATM in Huai Yai subdistrict. Evidence seized included 96,000 baht in cash, an iPhone 13, and a blue Yamaha NMAX motorcycle. Despite the seizure, police have not disclosed further details about the broader scam operation. Zhambalov faces charges under Section 269/5 of the Criminal Law for misuse of another person’s electronic card, which can result in up to five years in prison, a 100,000 baht fine, or both. Additionally, he is charged with fraud, carrying a penalty of up to three years in jail or a 60,000 baht fine, or both. As the investigation continues, authorities aim to dismantle the entire network involved in the scam. This case highlights the ongoing challenges in combating sophisticated scam operations employing advanced tactics and wide-reaching networks, reported The Thaiger. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 23 Mar 2026
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