Police Crack Scam Targeting Retired University Dean

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod 

Police have conducted a major operation across four provinces, arresting 12 suspects involved in a “Hybrid Scam” targeting retired men with fake romance and investment schemes. The case saw a former university dean lose nearly 2 million baht after being lured into a fraudulent gold trading platform. The arrests occurred on 21 November 2025 across Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Sawan and Chiang Rai.

The investigation, led by Pol Lt Gen Nattasak Chaowanachai and Pol Maj Gen Chananat Sathavanphaet, involved teams from multiple departments including the Technology Crime Suppression Division and the Consumer Protection Police. Suspects included ages between 18–35, both Thai and Lao nationals, accused of fraud, money laundering and conspiracy. Twelve were apprehended while 23 suspects in total have been identified.

The scam began when one victim, a former dean, connected online with a woman using a fake social media account. Over a month, the suspect gained his trust via messaging apps before persuading him to invest in a counterfeit gold trading website. The victim provided personal information and made ten payments totalling almost 2 million baht. Relatives eventually alerted authorities after repeated warnings failed to prevent further transfers.

Police revealed that the suspects were part of a larger network handling cash withdrawals for a call centre group based in Laos. Ms. Kedmanee, a 32-year-old Lao national, admitted to cash collection duties, receiving a 10% commission from the withdrawn funds, which were deposited into various bank accounts. The operation highlighted the growing sophistication of cross-border scams involving social engineering and digital platforms.

Khoasod reported that authorities continue to gather evidence and have charged all arrested suspects according to warrants issued by the Criminal Court. The investigation is ongoing, with remaining suspects still at large and further legal proceedings expected. Police urge the public to verify online contacts and investment offers to avoid similar scams.

Key Takeaways

• Twelve suspects arrested in a cross-border “Hybrid Scam” targeting retired men.

• The former dean lost nearly 2 million baht after investing in a fake platform.

• The case involves Thai and Lao nationals operating for an overseas call centre network.

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 Adapted  by  Asean  Now from Khaosod 2025-11-23