Photo from Bangkok Post

 

Thailand has announced its support for a US-led initiative targeting scam networks in Southeast Asia. The Thai Foreign Ministry expressed commitment to addressing online scams, aligning with US efforts against networks exploiting victims through violence, forced labor, and fraud. This follows significant US actions involving charges against Chen Zhi of Cambodia's Prince Holding Group for orchestrating an extensive scam operation.

 

The crackdown stems from a major US federal operation that charged Chen Zhi, 38, with involvement in wire fraud, money laundering, and bribery. Prosecutors claim Chen’s network laundered money via online gambling and crypto mining, funding luxuries like yachts, private jets, and a Picasso painting. US authorities have already seized over $14 billion in Bitcoin connected to this case, highlighting the scale of illicit earnings. These operations involved harsh methods, exploiting trafficked workers to maintain the unlawful profits.

 

Americans reportedly lost at least $10 billion to scams from Southeast Asia last year, a 66% increase from 2023, emphasizing the threat posed by such networks. The US Treasury Department identified Prince Holding Group as a key player in the global scam scene. Thailand emphasizes similar goals, collaborating with international entities to bring transnational crime networks to justice and expressing plans to boost cooperation with the US and other countries.

 

The crackdown is part of broader efforts as many scam networks are tied to human trafficking, with victims forced to work in compounds in countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. The Thai government aims to intensify joint efforts to combat these crimes efficiently.

 

Key Takeaways

• Thailand supports US efforts against Southeast Asian scam networks.
• Chen Zhi charged over large-scale scam involving illegal profits and trafficking.
• US and Thailand strengthen ties to combat transnational crime.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-10-16

 

 

But of course, nobody in Thailand wants to offend the Chinese who are usually the host country behind all these chinese mafia gangs. 

18 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

US-led initiative targeting scam

If it is one sure then, the Trump administration knows about scams on a wide scale.

A US foreign affairs policy I can support as an American. A large part of the long planed initiatives of the US Consulate here in Chiang Mai. A joint law enforcement program benefitting Thailand and USA interests.

21 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

US authorities have already seized over $14 billion in Bitcoin

Practically, how is that achieved?

 

 

 

Shouldn't this read,

 

 

The US has announced its support for a Thai-led initiative targeting scam networks in Southeast Asia.

 

Why is it down to the US?

 

(Can't get rid of the bold?)