Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid 

 

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers have arrested a 40-year-old Chinese national linked to a major second-hand clothing investment scam, seizing over 1.56 million baht in cash during a raid on a Pattaya condominium. The operation, carried out under court warrants issued in Thanyaburi and Pattaya, targeted a suspected member of an online fraud network that lured victims into high-return investment packages. The arrest has prompted renewed warnings to the public about deceptive online platforms offering unrealistic financial gains.

 

The case stems from an investigation by the Anti-Cyber Scam Center, which uncovered a scheme operating through a second-hand clothing sales platform. Offenders posed as buyers and encouraged victims to join membership or investment packages by offering small initial transfers to build trust. More than 10 victims across multiple provinces reported losses after larger investments were solicited.

 

According to police, the network funnelled money via “first-tier mule accounts” linked to TrueMoney Wallet before transferring funds into a front-company bank account. The cash was then withdrawn almost entirely and hidden in a condominium in Pattaya, indicating clear money-laundering activity. Officers recovered 1,563,559 baht in various currencies, along with three mobile phones and two bank books.

 

The raid was led under the direction of senior police officials including Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridej, Pol. Lt. Gen. Natthasak Chaownasai and Pol. Maj. Gen. Tussanapoom Jaruprachya. Following surveillance and evidence gathering, investigators secured arrest and search warrants, leading to the detention of the suspect, identified as Mr. Zhongtian. He has denied all charges and has been handed over to Khlong Luang Police Station investigators for further legal proceedings.

 

Authorities emphasise the rising trend of online fraud connected to high-yield schemes and the use of mule accounts to obscure financial trails. They urged the public to exercise caution when dealing with digital platforms, particularly those involving second-hand goods and investment offers. Police reiterated that individuals should never transfer money without verification to avoid becoming victims of cybercriminals.

 

Further investigation into the wider network is ongoing, with police expecting to identify additional accomplices involved in both the scam and the laundering of its proceeds. Officers anticipate more arrests as they track financial movements linked to the front company. The case is expected to proceed to formal prosecution once evidence and statements are fully compiled.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Police arrested a 40-year-old Chinese national in Pattaya linked to an online second-hand clothing investment scam.

• Investigators seized 1.56 million baht in cash, phones and bank books connected to suspected money-laundering activity.

• Authorities warn the public to avoid high-return online schemes and verify all transactions.

 

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 Adapted  by  Asean Now from Thaitabloid 2025-12-09

 

 

9 minutes ago, Georgealbert said:

Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers have arrested a 40-year-old Chinese national linked to a major second-hand clothing investment scam

This is something I thought I'd never ever read about......2nd hand clothing scam. 

 

That takes the biscuit, heard it all now. 

 

He obviously kept the 2nd hand clothes for himself.