South Korean Scam Suspect on Red Notice Detained in Bangkok Restaurant Raid

South Korean Scam Suspect on Red Notice Detained in Bangkok Restaurant Raid

BANGKOK, April 25, 2026 — Thai immigration police have arrested a South Korean man wanted under an Interpol Red Notice during a raid on a restaurant in Bangkok’s RCA nightlife district, authorities said, as officials step up action against transnational crime networks operating in Thailand.

The suspect, identified only as Mr. Kim, was detained on April 24 after officers from Immigration Bureau Division 1 launched an undercover operation following reports that a foreign fugitive was hiding in the area.

Police said officers entered a Korean restaurant posing as customers and observed Thai and South Korean patrons allegedly inhaling nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, from balloons. Mr. Kim was identified and arrested at the scene.

Authorities said the suspect is wanted by South Korea for offences linked to online fraud and scam operations and is listed under an Interpol Red Notice. Investigators also found that he had overstayed his permission to remain in Thailand.

During the raid, police also arrested a Thai national identified as Mr Ek, the restaurant manager.

Officials seized 17 ten-litre nitrous oxide tanks disguised with cartoon designs, 10 smaller two-litre canisters, and a quantity of balloons allegedly used for inhalation.

Mr. Ek faces charges of selling a controlled medical substance without a licence under Thailand’s Drug Act, police said.

Investigators also alleged that the business was using bank accounts belonging to South Korean nationals to process payments, and said further arrests may follow.

Thai authorities said Mr. Kim will first face immigration proceedings in Thailand before extradition procedures to South Korea begin.

The Immigration Bureau said it would continue cracking down on foreign criminal syndicates using Thailand as a base of operations.