Cambodian Woman Arrested With Over 10,000 Fake Banknotes

Picture courtesy of Matichon 

Security forces detained a 48-year-old Cambodian woman on 7 December 2025 after discovering more than 10,000 counterfeit banknotes of multiple currencies hidden inside a sack of rice she carried across the border in Sa Kaeo province. The arrest took place near Ban Pa Rai Mai in Aranyaprathet district during a routine patrol by Ranger Company 1202 working with Burapha Task Force units and Khlong Luek Police Station. Officers also found that the woman’s temporary border pass had expired, prompting immediate action to prevent the circulation of the fake currency.

Authorities reported that the suspect, identified as Re Suon, attempted to enter Thailand by crossing the border informally with bags of personal belongings. During the inspection, officers uncovered plastic bags containing counterfeit notes inside the rice sack, including Thai baht, US dollars, South Korean won and Cambodian riel. The discovery raised concerns about the potential distribution of counterfeit cash across local communities and workplaces.

Initial questioning revealed that the woman claimed to have found the counterfeit money while sorting waste at a dumpsite in Poipet. She told investigators that she planned to bring the fake banknotes to her Thai husband, who works as a labourer in Aranyaprathet, as well as to Thai and Cambodian co-workers. Her expired border document further underscored the irregular nature of her entry attempt.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges in monitoring informal crossings along the Thai-Cambodian border, where smuggling and undocumented movement remain persistent issues. Security officials noted that counterfeit currency poses risks to both local economies and cross-border trade, as even small-scale circulation can undermine trust in cash transactions. Police are expected to examine whether the seized notes are linked to wider production or smuggling networks.

Matichon reported that Re Suon was taken to Khlong Luek Police Station along with all seized items for further investigation and formal charges. Officers will verify her account, assess the origin of the counterfeit banknotes and determine whether additional suspects are involved. Authorities are now reviewing security procedures in the area as the case proceeds.

Key Takeaways

• A Cambodian woman was arrested in Sa Kaeo with more than 10,000 counterfeit banknotes hidden in a rice sack.

• She told police she found the fake notes while sorting rubbish in Poipet and intended to bring them to her Thai husband and co-workers.

• Police are investigating the source of the counterfeit currency and any possible links to wider networks.

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 Adapted  by  Asean Now from Matichon 2025-12-08