Pattaya: The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) launched Operation Thailand-Korea Breaking Chains to dismantle a transnational call center gang. The operation resulted in the arrest of two Chinese nationals linked to a series of crimes that extend beyond borders.
According to Thai News Agency, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in collaboration with the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), the Anti-Online Fraud Center (ACSC), the Korean Police, and Immigration Bureau Region 3, conducted a successful operation leading to the arrest of Mr. Ham and Mr. Chen. Mr. Ham, a Chinese national, was wanted under an Interpol Red Notice for "entrapment and coercion" under Korean law, while Mr. Chen faced charges for "illegitimate possession and use of methamphetamine." Both were apprehended at a residence in Pattaya, Chonburi Province.
This case highlights the cooperation between Thai and South Korean police in tackling transnational crime, specifically call center scams. The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) received intelligence from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea that Mr. Ham had fled to Thailand. As a pivotal member of a transnational fraud ring, Mr. Ham is accused of luring South Korean victims to Thailand, where they are coerced into working as call center employees after having their passports confiscated. Their bank accounts are subsequently used as dummy accounts. Additionally, Mr. Ham is believed to be linked to a violent attack resulting in the death of a South Korean student in a neighboring country, prompting his flight to Thailand.
Following the raid, three individuals were apprehended at the suspect's residence. Mr. Ham, as identified in the red notice, confessed to all charges and was handed over to the Public Prosecutor's Office for International Affairs for legal proceedings. Mr. Chen, who displayed symptoms of drug use and tested positive for methamphetamine, was also taken into custody. The investigation into the whereabouts of another Chinese national is ongoing. The case has been transferred to investigators at Nong Prue Police Station for further legal action.