South Korean Scam Suspect Held on Interpol Notice

Pictures courtesy of Daily News

Tourist Police have arrested a South Korean national wanted under an Interpol Blue Notice after he allegedly defrauded compatriots of nearly 97 million won and fled to Thailand, where he was found overstaying his visa and in possession of illegal drugs. The suspect was detained during a targeted raid in Bangkok and now faces prosecution under Thai law, with extradition coordination under way. Authorities said the operation underscores ongoing efforts to track transnational crime networks.

The arrest took place on 18 December 2568 following intelligence that a cross-border suspect was hiding in the Bang Na area of Bangkok. Officers from Tourist Police Division 1, led by Pol Lt Gen Saksira Phueak-um, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, and Pol Col Piyapong Ensan, Superintendent of Division 1, conducted a search of a room in Soi 5, Bang Na Tai subdistrict, Bang Na district. The operation followed surveillance and information-sharing linked to international law enforcement alerts.

Police identified the suspect as Mr Song Jinhyeok, aged 34, a South Korean national named on an Interpol Blue Notice. He is alleged to be part of a scam group accused of fraudulently inducing South Korean victims to invest, with total losses reported at 96.9 million won. Investigators said multiple victims in South Korea were affected by the scheme.

During the search, officers seized 1.82 grams of methamphetamine (ice), classified as a Category 1 narcotic in Thailand, along with drug paraphernalia. Immigration checks showed Mr Song entered Thailand in March 2025 and was permitted to remain until 29 May 2025. His current status was confirmed as overstaying.

Police initially charged the suspect with remaining in the kingdom after permission had expired and with illegal possession of a Category 1 narcotic. He was transferred to investigators at Bang Na Police Station to proceed under Thai law. Authorities said the drug and immigration offences would be handled domestically while parallel coordination continues internationally.

Daily News reported that the Tourist Police said they are preparing to liaise with South Korean authorities regarding further legal action, including potential extradition, once Thai proceedings allow. Officials reiterated their commitment to cooperating with international partners to pursue fugitives involved in fraud and other serious crimes. Further investigative steps will determine timelines for cross-border transfer.

Key Takeaways

• A 34-year-old South Korean man was arrested in Bangkok on 18 December 2568 under an Interpol Blue Notice.

• He is accused of defrauding South Korean victims of 96.9 million won through investment scams.

• Police also charged him with visa overstay and possession of 1.82 grams of methamphetamine.

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 Adapted  by  Asean Now from Dailynews. 2025-12-19