Polish Man Arrested in Buriram Over Interpol VAT Fraud

Thai immigration police have arrested Polish national Mr Andzej, 64, in the northeastern province of Buriram after an Interpol Red Notice flagged him as wanted for involvement in a transnational VAT fraud network. Officers from the Immigration Bureau confirmed that the suspect was found to have overstayed his visa by 42 days at the time of arrest.

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The operation was conducted in coordination with regional immigration units following intelligence checks on foreign nationals residing illegally in the area. He was taken into custody for immigration violations while international warrants remain active.

Between 13 December 2012 and 25 August 2013, Andzej allegedly collaborated with others in an organised criminal network operating across European Union member states. The group is accused of committing VAT fraud involving cross-border trade in goods, designed to illegally reduce value added tax liabilities.

Authorities in Poland estimate financial losses to the state at 5,199,968.01 Polish zloty. Following the alleged offences, he reportedly fled the jurisdiction and later travelled to Thailand, where he was subsequently located by investigators.

Thai immigration enforcement described the arrest as part of ongoing measures to prevent foreign suspects with serious international warrants from using Thailand as a safe haven. The Immigration Bureau operates under a framework described as “not allowed in, not allowed to stay, and not allowed to escape”, targeting overstays and individuals flagged by international law enforcement systems.

Officials said the case reflects continued cooperation with Interpol and foreign agencies, including coordination through Warsaw, to track fugitives across borders. He is currently being held for prosecution under Thai immigration law for overstaying his permitted stay, with legal proceedings initiated under the Immigration Act.

Naewna reported that authorities are to coordinate with Polish authorities and diplomatic channels regarding extradition or deportation proceedings. Once domestic immigration charges are processed, he is to be returned to Poland to face further legal action in connection with the alleged VAT fraud offences. Officials have not released a timeline for transfer, pending inter-agency coordination.

Pictures courtesy of Naewna

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 23 June 2026

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