Picture courtesy of Wassayos Ngamkham) | via Bangkok Post

 

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has vowed to intensify Thailand's crackdown on scams following a major asset seizure totalling 10 billion baht linked to Cambodia. Speaking at a press conference in Bangkok, Anutin stressed the government's zero-tolerance approach, promising continuous action against anyone involved in scams. He emphasised that investigations would rely on evidence, with legal proceedings applied impartially.

 

The hefty asset seizure stemmed from complaints by some 700 online scam victims dating back to 2021, as explained by Pol Maj Gen Sophon Sarapat, deputy commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau. Investigations revealed that several mule accounts funnelled victims' funds, ultimately landing in bank accounts linked to Cambodian businessman Yim Leak. Sophon announced the arrest of 29 suspects, leaving 13 others, including Yim Leak, at large.

 

Investigations also unveiled that scammers laundered their money through front companies and acquired properties and shares in Thai-listed firms like Bangchak Corporation. The Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) plans to seek the confiscation of these assets within 90 days for auctioning, with proceeds directed back to the victims.

 

The largest seizure, approximately 9.2 billion baht, involves a network associated with South African businessman Benjamin Mauerberger, who reportedly fled to Dubai in September. Mauerberger is linked to a scam syndicate operating from Cambodia, impersonating officials to deceive individuals out of money. Journalists Tom Wright and Bradley Hope have been investigating his involvement, revealing a $1.5 billion "shadow empire," as reported by the Bangkok Post.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Prime Minister Anutin pledges continuous scam suppression, promising no leniency.
• A 10-billion-baht asset seizure was made from complex scam operations linked to Cambodia.
• Authorities plan to auction seized assets, funds returned to scam victims.

 

Related Stories:

Anutin Targets Cross-Border Scammers After Personal Experience

PM Anutin Declares ‘War on Scammers’ in Cybercrime Crackdown

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-12-04

 

 

 

As usual they will harass the decent (foreigners only of course). 

 

The big time crooks and their bosses (usually on the top most floor wearing suits), will always get away...nothing new here.