Suspected Birth Record Scam in Korat Grows to 45 Cases

Suspected Birth Record Scam in Korat Grows to 45 Cases

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, May 2 — Thai authorities are investigating an expanding birth registration fraud scheme involving at least 45 cases linked to Chinese nationals, raising concerns over identity misuse and national security risks, officials said.

The case emerged after a local mayor filed a complaint against municipal registration officials, triggering an inquiry that initially uncovered 27 suspicious birth records allegedly issued in exchange for payments.

Further checks in coordination with a local hospital revealed an additional 18 questionable entries, bringing the total to 45. All names listed were identified as Chinese nationals.

Officials said the records showed unusual patterns, including six sets of twins and clusters of registrations within short timeframes, prompting deeper scrutiny of the civil registration system.

Immigration authorities have detained two Chinese nationals at Suvarnabhumi Airport after linking them to addresses used in the fraudulent records. Both are under investigation.

The hospital cited in the documents denied involvement and said it is conducting an internal review.

Authorities warned that fraudulent birth registrations could grant access to legal rights and public services, posing risks of identity fraud and potential exploitation by criminal networks.

The case is expected to be referred to anti-corruption agencies as investigators work to identify additional suspects and determine the full scope of the operation.