Russian Suspect Arrested in Phuket Over Scam Cash Withdrawals

Russian Suspect Arrested in Phuket Over Scam Cash Withdrawals

PHUKET, April 21, 2026 — Thai police have arrested a Russian national in Phuket on suspicion of helping launder money for a call centre scam network, after investigators tracked repeated ATM withdrawals linked to fraud victims, authorities said.

The suspect, identified as Anton Kurchenko, 41, was detained on April 20 after surveillance by Phuket Provincial Police.

Police said Kurchenko had been observed making multiple cash withdrawals outside a Mini Big C convenience store in Soi Ta-iad, Chalong subdistrict.

Investigators said he withdrew cash 16 times, totalling around 331,000 baht (about US$9,000). The funds were allegedly linked to 16 separate call centre scam cases, with combined victim losses exceeding 790,000 baht.

Authorities suspect he acted as a “money mule”, withdrawing funds from bank accounts used to receive proceeds from fraudulent operations.

Police later raided an apartment in Rawai subdistrict and arrested him in his room.

Because many of the linked fraud complaints were filed in Surat Thani province, Kurchenko was transferred to Kanchanadit Police Station for further legal proceedings.

Thai police said they are expanding the investigation to identify other members of the network and trace additional financial flows.

Thailand has stepped up efforts against foreign-linked cybercrime, scam compounds and money laundering networks, particularly in tourist centres such as Phuket, Pattaya and Bangkok.

Recent operations have included arrests of Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese and Indian nationals allegedly connected to online fraud, illegal gambling and investment scams.

Officials warned the public to remain cautious of suspicious calls, online investment offers and requests to transfer money, as authorities continue targeting transnational criminal groups operating in the country.