PHUKET, Thailand – In a luxury villa on Phuket, handcuffs clicked on a Russian man wanted by Interpol on Saturday. The individual is accused of defrauding over 150 million Baht through a sophisticated company scam. Adding to his troubles, the immigration police discovered the suspect was also illegally in the country.
The Matter of the Expired Stamp
Officials reviewed the man’s residency data, identified only as Mr. Igor, in the biometric system. He had entered Phuket Airport on March 7, 2026, with a tourist visa valid until May 5. A requested extension was granted until June 4, 2026. Igor subsequently remained in the country. At the time of his apprehension, he had overstayed his permit by nine days.
Warrant with the Red Corner
The operation was a coordinated effort between Immigration Bureau Region 6 and the Phuket Immigration Office. They had received intelligence that the internationally wanted man had gone into hiding. Police Major General Chutharet Yingyongdamrongsakul, Commander of Region 6, ordered the pursuit. Thai investigators worked closely with Russian police and the international division of the Royal Thai Police. They confirmed: Mr. Igor was on Interpol Red Notice No. A-6580/4-2026, issued on April 27, 2026, for serious fraud and document forgery.
Two Audacious Company Schemes
Investigators accuse the Russian of two separate fraud schemes in 2024 and 2025. In the first operation, he allegedly collaborated with accomplices to create counterfeit procurement and transport documents to obtain company funds. The resulting damage exceeded 80 million Baht. According to police, a second scheme was uncovered in early 2025. This time, the group allegedly used fabricated production orders for goods that were never manufactured, yet payments were still made. This caused additional losses of over 70 million Baht for the companies.
The Climax of the Hunt
The trail eventually led the international investigative team to an upscale villa on the resort island of Phuket. Officers, including Police Lieutenant Colonel Sitthimon Soiphuraya and Police Lieutenant Pavaret Nontasut, meticulously monitored the property, coordinating constantly with Police Colonel Wuttipat Napachoti. On Saturday, June 13, the suspect finally appeared. Around 11 a.m., he left the house, and the apprehension team moved in immediately. Officers identified themselves as immigration police and arrested Igor without resistance.
What Awaits the Alleged Millionaire Fraudster
Following his arrest, the Russian was informed of his rights and the charges against him. In addition to the Interpol warrant, he is now also being charged with overstaying. He was transferred to the Immigration Bureau investigators. His time in Thailand is definitively over. After the conclusion of Thai legal proceedings, the man will be deported to his home country, Russia. Far more serious fraud charges await him there.