BANGKOK, THAILAND – Two Europeans wanted on Interpol Red Notices were arrested in Chiang Mai and Bangkok after the Immigration Bureau intensified nationwide checks on overstays and cross-border crime.
Tighter checks ordered by immigration leadership
The operation stemmed from an instruction by Pol Lt Gen Phanumart Boonyalak, head of the Immigration Bureau, who ordered all units to step up inspections of foreigners with overstayed visas or expired residence permits across the country.
Authorities focused on individuals who might be evading prosecution abroad or who were considered a threat to public order. Investigators worked closely with international security services and Interpol to identify and track potential targets.
Arrest of wanted Swede in Chiang Mai
On 24 February 2026, at around 4:30 p.m., officers led by senior immigration officials, including Pol Lt Gen Phanumart Boonyalak and Pol Maj Gen Phanthana Nutchanart, arrested a 60‑year‑old Swedish national named Johan in Chiang Mai province.
Swedish authorities had requested assistance in locating the man, and a check in the Immigration Bureau’s information system confirmed that an Interpol Red Notice for fraud had been in place against him since 2023.
Charges in Mae Rim and extradition preparations
The Swedish suspect was accused of entering and staying in the kingdom without valid permission. He was handed over to investigators at Mae Rim Police Station in Chiang Mai for further proceedings under Thai law.
Thai authorities prepared domestic legal steps before deciding on a possible extradition to Sweden as part of international cooperation. Any transfer was expected to follow the completion of procedures in Thailand.
Second arrest of Frenchman in central Bangkok
The second arrest took place on 25 February 2026 at around 11:15 a.m., when officers from Division 1 of the Immigration Bureau’s investigative unit detained a 43‑year‑old French national named Nadim in Bangkok.
A French arrest warrant and an Interpol Red Notice had been issued for him. He was accused of joint aggravated extortion involving threats and physical violence, as well as the alleged theft of €200,000 in cash.
Surveillance in Bang Rak and ‘Turn Back Crimes’ policy
Investigators had tracked the Frenchman after extended surveillance to an address near Soi Charoen Krung 36 in Bang Rak district, where he was arrested. He was immediately transferred to the Immigration Bureau’s investigative division for further legal action.
According to Thaitabloid, authorities stated that both arrests were the result of continuous monitoring and close cooperation between the Immigration Bureau, Interpol and other security services. Under the security policy guideline known as “Turn Back Crimes”, deportation was planned after Thai proceedings were concluded.
Is Thailand no safe haven?
The immigration authority detained two men wanted through Interpol: a 60‑year‑old Swede in Chiang Mai and a 43‑year‑old Frenchman in Bangkok.
The report raised questions over whether Thailand had done enough against overstays and international crime, or whether even stricter controls might be required in the future.