Pictures courtesy of Matichon

 

Police have arrested 38-year-old Chinese national Zhen Zhang in Bangkok on 1 November 2025, over allegations of money laundering and operating an unlicensed digital asset business. The arrest took place in a shopping mall parking area on Rama IX Road, following a Criminal Court warrant issued on 31 October 2025. Zhang is also accused of working in Thailand without a valid permit.

 

Authorities said Zhang acted as an intermediary for a network of Thai individuals linked to a call centre scam. He reportedly facilitated the exchange of cryptocurrencies for Thai clients, accepting payments in cash or via bank transfer and forwarding funds to a Chinese associate, Li Yong, who held the digital assets. Police discovered transaction records, digital wallets, transfer slips and Telegram messages confirming his involvement.

 

Zhang entered Thailand on a student visa obtained in Singapore and resides on Nimmanhaemin Soi 9 in Chiang Mai. During questioning with a translator present, he admitted to exchanging cryptocurrencies but denied holding large amounts himself. Police noted he had not previously faced criminal charges in Thailand.

 

Investigators seized Zhang’s Toyota Alphard van, registration from Bangkok, also highlighting discrepancies between its registered owner and Zhang’s possession. Authorities suspect the vehicle may have been acquired through criminal activity or used to facilitate money laundering. Police emphasised that unlicensed digital asset exchanges and cross-border money laundering remain significant risks.

 

Legal proceedings are now underway at Sutthisan Police Station. Zhang faces charges under anti-money laundering and digital asset regulations, with authorities continuing investigations into the wider network and associated call centre scams.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Zhen Zhang was arrested in Bangkok on 1 November 2025 for illegal cryptocurrency exchange and money laundering.

• Investigators linked Zhang to a network of Thai individuals connected to call centre scams.

• Police seized his van and digital evidence, noting potential violations of Thai work and financial laws.

 

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  Adapted  by  Asean  Now from Matichon 2025-11-03

 

 

 

 

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