Chinese National Arrested for Firearms Training Scam, Victims Lose 300,000 Baht

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

A 50-year-old Chinese man has been arrested by the Immigration Bureau for allegedly defrauding individuals seeking membership in a Thai shooting sports association. Victims reportedly lost over 300,000 baht each in the scam.

The arrest follows a directive from the Royal Thai Police, led by Police General Kittirat Phanphet, to crack down on foreign nationals engaging in illegal business activities. Officers from the Immigration Bureau, under the supervision of Lieutenant General Panumas Bunyaluk, conducted the operation and announced the suspect’s capture.

The accused, identified as Mr. Zhi Jiang, was apprehended under charges of public fraud and introducing false or misleading information into a computer system.

According to police reports, the scam targeted individuals interested in practical shooting sports. One victim, eager to join the Thai Practical Shooting Association (THPSA), came across a promotional video on Douyin (the Chinese version of TikTok), in which Mr. Zhi Jiang claimed he could facilitate the membership process.

The victim contacted the suspect via WeChat to inquire about the service. Mr. Zhi Jiang offered a package for 270,000 baht, which included an eight-day training course, assistance in passing the required tests, and the issuance of a membership card.

Instead of requesting a direct bank transfer, Mr. Zhi Jiang insisted on receiving cash upon the victim’s arrival in Thailand, claiming he would cover initial expenses, such as firearm rental and ammunition fees.

Upon arriving in Thailand, the victim handed over 320,000 baht, which included 270,000 baht for training and membership fees, plus 50,000 baht for accommodation.

After completing the training course, the victim only received a certificate from the instructor but was not issued the promised membership card. Upon contacting the Thai Practical Shooting Association, the victim discovered that their name was not on the membership list. Further inquiries revealed that the association requires members to reside in Thailand for at least six months per year, a condition the victim did not meet.

Realising they had been deceived, the victim attempted to reach Mr. Zhi Jiang for a refund, but the suspect refused to return the money, stopped all communication, and eventually blocked the victim’s contact.

The victim subsequently filed a complaint with Huai Khwang Police Station, leading to an investigation and Mr. Zhi Jiang’s eventual arrest.

Authorities are now urging anyone who may have been similarly defrauded to come forward. Investigations are ongoing to determine how many additional victims are involved.

-- 2025-03-22