Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

Police in Surat Thani have ramped up efforts to capture a woman allegedly involved in a large-scale ticket fraud operation, affecting over 50 individuals and totalling damages of more than 3 million baht. An arrest warrant was issued for Kaewta Chookhao on 7th May, following investigations into the fraudulent sale of airline tickets.

 

According to Police Major General Sermpan Sirikhong, commander of Surat Thani provincial police, the suspect deceived victims by promising discounted airline tickets for both domestic and international travel. Many trusted her claims and transferred substantial sums of money, only to realise the tickets were invalid when attempting to use them.

 

The case has drawn substantial attention, involving approximately 50 victims with financial losses estimated at 3,672,890 baht (US$112,390). Complaints have been filed at Bo Phut Police Station and other local stations, launching a comprehensive investigation.

 

At the national level, Police General Kittirat Phanphet and Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomchit have urged swift action to secure Kaewta's arrest. The charges she faces centre on public fraud, a serious offence carrying heavy penalties, reflecting the significant financial distress inflicted on the victims.

 

Authorities are determined to capture Kaewta promptly to investigate further, as there may be additional victims or accomplices linked to this fraudulent scheme. Police Major General Sermpan affirmed that any further evidence of complicity will be met with stringent legal action.

 

Today, Lieutenant Colonel Sirachat Kamuni from Bo Phut Police Station has collected evidence to secure an arrest warrant from the Koh Samui provincial court. The court promptly approved warrant number 134/2568, dated 7th May, which has been circulated to police stations and immigration offices across the nation.

 

The Surat Thani provincial police, alongside the Bo Phut investigation team, are redoubling their efforts to apprehend Kaewta and delve deeper into the case. Police Major General Sermpan has urged the suspect to surrender voluntarily, asserting that evasion will ultimately prove futile as law enforcement agencies close in on those responsible.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08

 

 

Average 3K THB per "discounted" ticket. Where to? The Moon?