NARATHIWAT, THAILAND – Four men were arrested on June 13, 2026, following a dramatic chase spanning over 30 kilometers. Authorities suspect the group was attempting to illegally cross the border and has connections to a call center fraud network.
Full Speed Through the Checkpoint
Highway police in Narathiwat attempted to stop a gray Toyota with Surat Thani license plates in the village of Ban Luboyoh. Upon seeing the stop signal, the driver accelerated, breaking through the checkpoint.
What ensued was a cinematic pursuit. For over 30 kilometers, the vehicle sped away from the officers until the driver lost control, veering off the road.
Escape into the Dark Forest
Following the crash, the five occupants fled in haste into a nearby wooded area. Police immediately cordoned off the area and, with the support of additional forces, began a foot pursuit.
Three Chinese nationals and the Thai driver were apprehended. A fifth Thai individual managed to escape into the darkness; this man is still being sought.
Detainees Identified
Officers identified the driver as 48-year-old Thai citizen Kori. The apprehended Chinese men were identified as 40-year-old Zhao Bao, 34-year-old Wang Bing Feng, and 26-year-old Tu Hong Fei.
The three Chinese men exhibited suspicious behavior, according to police. A check of their identities quickly brought clarity.
One Suspect on Wanted List
Investigations revealed that one of the Chinese men is wanted in the People’s Republic of China in connection with the organization of gambling. For the police, this was a clear indication of a criminal travel group operating in the area.
Zhao Bao, Wang Bing Feng, and Tu Hong Fei were charged with illegal entry into the kingdom.
Driver Claims Ignorance
During interrogation, driver Kori maintained his innocence. He stated he was merely transporting the three Chinese men for payment and was unaware of the purpose of their trip.
“The Chinese citizens themselves stated that they had entered Thailand illegally. Their destination was the southern border, organized by people smugglers in the background.”
said Kori, Driver.
Call Center Fraud and Illegal Departure
Police suspect the group was attempting to leave Thailand for a neighboring country. The case may extend beyond simple human smuggling.
Investigators are examining connections to a call center fraud network. Police Major General Pornsak Laorujiralai, commander of the Highway Police Division, confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
Charges and Further Manhunt
Kori was officially charged by police for aiding the escape of foreigners. All four suspects were transferred to the Cho Airong police station for further legal proceedings.
The search for the fifth Thai man, who remains at large, is in full swing. Police hope to uncover further details about the smuggling network through him.