Thai Tourist Police Bust Fake 'Sala Khaoyai' Booking Scam

Following a directive from Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phuek-am, the Tourist Police Bureau has launched a comprehensive investigation into fraudulent accommodation pages affecting the tourism industry. This initiative was spearheaded by Pol. Maj. Gen. Phongsayam Mee-khanthong and others, leading to a breakthrough in a major scam involving fake bookings for Sala Khaoyai, a popular tourist destination.

On September 10, 2023, a victim booked two pool villas via a fake Sala Khaoyai Facebook page, transferring a total of 8,200 baht as accommodation fees and an additional 3,000 baht for a room deposit to account number 70-1360837-1 at CIMB Bank, under the name Ms. Mew. However, when the victim attempted to postpone the booking, she discovered that no reservation was made in her name and realised she had been duped. She promptly filed a complaint, reported Daily News.

Investigations conducted by the Tourist Police's Investigation Division 1 led to the issuance of an arrest warrant by the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Court on April 26, 2024, against Ms. Mew. She was charged with "jointly defrauding the public and opening an account for crime-related purposes."

On August 19, 2024, police officers traced Ms. Mew to Bang Rakam, Phitsanulok Province. She was promptly arrested and taken to Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima Police Station for further questioning. Ms. Mew confessed to being hired for 500 baht per bank account by an employer she was introduced to via Facebook. She had opened the fraudulent account online approximately 10 months prior.

The Tourist Police's swift and effective action highlights their commitment to protecting tourists and maintaining the integrity of the country's tourism industry. The investigation underscores the importance of verifying the authenticity of online accommodation bookings and remaining vigilant against fraud.

TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News

-- 2024-08-21

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