Picture courtesy of Korea JoongAng Daily

 

South Korean police have dismantled a crime syndicate based in Pattaya, accused of orchestrating online scams that defrauded nearly 900 victims of 21 billion Korean won (approximately US$15 million). On September 22, authorities confirmed that 25 members of the group, Longge Company, have been arrested. Twenty-one suspects are now in custody in South Korea, while nine others, including the alleged leader known as Jaryong, are detained in Thailand awaiting extradition.

 

The syndicate's activities extended beyond traditional voice phishing, involving fraudulent investment opportunities, online romance scams, and a deceptive “no-show scam.” In this elaborate ruse, fraudsters impersonated celebrities, hospitals, or corporations, convincing small businesses to place bulk orders and subsequently coercing them into purchasing overpriced goods from a fake supplier. Victims were then required to pay upfront, only for the scammers to disappear afterward.

 

The operation followed a joint Thai-Korean effort in June, when Thai police raided a resort in Pattaya, arresting 20 individuals linked to the group. South Korean investigators visited Thailand three times to gather crucial evidence, leading to the identification of key figures, including the leader, Jaryong. A follow-up raid exposed another Pattaya office used by the syndicate, further solidifying the case against them.

 

The arrests underscore growing international cooperation in combating cross-border scams targeting vulnerable victims. Authorities have warned that as online fraud continues to rise in both South Korea and Thailand, criminal networks are rapidly evolving their tactics. The South Korean police urged citizens to stay vigilant against increasingly sophisticated online schemes.

 

Looking ahead, extradition procedures for the detained suspects in Thailand will proceed as authorities continue their investigation. Both South Korean and Thai law enforcement stress the importance of bilateral collaborations to effectively dismantle such networks.

 

Key Takeaways

• South Korean police arrested 25 suspects involved in a $15 million scam.
• The group used elaborate schemes involving fake investments and romance scams.
• Joint Thai-Korean efforts highlight the importance of international cooperation.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-09-23

 

 

LOS means land of scammers for sure.Seems like the only safe is cash.