Cross-Border Scam Suspect Nabbed in Bangkok

Cross-Border Scam Suspect Nabbed in Bangkok

BANGKOK, April 18, 2026 — Thai immigration police have arrested a Chinese national accused of masterminding a large pyramid scheme that defrauded hundreds of victims, in a case highlighting the growing presence of transnational fraud networks operating out of Bangkok.

The suspect, identified as Mr. Fei, was detained in the Bang Khae district following coordination between Thai authorities and Chinese law enforcement.

Police said he was wanted in China over a scheme known as the “1040 Project”, which allegedly collected funds from more than 300 victims through a multi-level structure promising high returns.

Participants were required to pay an entry fee of around 69,800 yuan (about 325,000 baht), with the scheme claiming top-tier members could earn millions of yuan in returns.

Investigators said total losses exceeded 100 million yuan (approximately 475 million baht), with Mr Fei accused of overseeing the collection and distribution of funds.

Authorities said the suspect fled China after an arrest warrant was issued and his passport revoked, before taking refuge in Thailand where he continued business activities.

Thai immigration officers located him at a residence and business premises in Bangkok, where he was arrested and had his permission to stay in the country revoked.

The suspect has been handed over for legal processing and is expected to be deported.

The case underscores increasing cooperation between Thailand and China in tackling cross-border financial crime, as authorities warn that regional cities are increasingly being used as operational bases for large-scale scam networks targeting victims abroad.