International Fraud Syndicate Dismantled in Thailand
The Thai Tourist Police have successfully dismantled an international fraud ring, arresting suspects from Yemen and Kenya who allegedly scammed currency exchange booths nationwide. The total damage: over 1 million Baht (approximately €25,000). Their method was both simple and audacious—presenting only photos of passports before vanishing with the cash.
Ingenious Scam at Don Mueang Airport
On October 5, 2025, an employee at a Kasikorn Bank exchange booth at Don Mueang Airport reported a brazen scam. A man exchanged $8,389 USD (about 244,958 Baht) but never handed over the actual dollars. Instead, he showed only a photo of a passport and disappeared with the Thai Baht, leaving the booth empty-handed.
The suspect was quickly identified as Abdalla Ahmed Salim, a Kenyan national. Under the direction of Police Colonel Monphon Likhitmanon, Tourist Police investigators immediately began searching for additional accomplices.
Six Locations, Six Scams
The investigation revealed the syndicate’s systematic approach. Within just nine days, they targeted six currency exchange booths across Thailand:
- September 29: Pak Kret – 215,018 Baht
- October 1: Chanasongkram – 185,600 Baht
- October 1: Lumpini – 107,330 Baht
- October 2: Ayutthaya – 201,600 Baht
- October 5: Don Mueang Airport – 244,958 Baht
- October 7: Kanchanaburi – 195,688 Baht
The total loss exceeded 1 million Baht. The group demonstrated remarkable mobility, striking at distant locations in rapid succession.
Arrest in Hua Hin
Through intensive investigation, police apprehended the suspected accomplice, Nabil Mohammed Yahya Zaid (43) from Yemen, in Hua Hin. An arrest warrant (No. 5904/2568) had already been issued by the Criminal Court.
The suspect was transferred to Don Mueang Police Station, where he faces charges of “joint theft at an airport during nighttime.” Authorities are now investigating whether the group is part of a larger international fraud network.
Tourist Police Warn of New Scam Tactics
Police General Saksira Pueak-am, Commander of the Tourist Police, has issued a warning to all currency exchange operators: “Always verify original documents—never accept photos!”
This case highlights how international fraudsters continually devise new schemes to target Thai businesses. However, the Tourist Police remain vigilant—and this time, their swift action paid off.