Phoney Political Connections Gang Accused of 8.2 Million Baht Scam

Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod

A Songkhla couple has filed a complaint against a gang accused of extorting 8.2 million baht by falsely claiming connections with high-profile politicians to secure their son's release from prison. The complaint, assisted by lawyer Chatchawan Bamrungwong, was submitted to Police Lieutenant Colonel Jirasak Wongsuriya at Hat Yai Police Station.

The accused, identified as Rachatthorn, Sompong, and Natthaphon, allegedly posed as associates of Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin and Pheu Thai MP Chusak Keerimatthong. They claimed they could influence the reduction of Sunaiya's son's sentence, who is imprisoned for attempted murder.

Sunaiya, the victim, recounted that Rachatthorn falsely presented himself as an advisor to a parliamentary committee. Trusting this facade, she initially transferred 2.9 million baht, believing in their promises of influence. The gang created a sense of credibility by arranging video calls and meetings at Parliament and even orchestrating a meeting with Somsak at Hat Yai Airport.

To further deceive Sunaiya, the gang fabricated confidential letters from ministers and showed photographs with prominent figures. However, when no progress was made regarding her son's release, she realised the deception.

Upon consulting with lawyer Chatchawan, Sunaiya learned that pardoning requires jurisdiction belonging to the Justice Minister, not Somsak. This realisation prompted her and her husband to pursue legal action against the gang.

Reports suggest that Sompong, one of the accused, is linked to a senator from Samut Sakhon and was recently involved in an illegal diesel operation in Songkhla. As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on holding the perpetrators accountable for their fraudulent activities, reported The Thaiger.