CHIANG MAI, THAILAND – Police have dismantled two high-profile scam operations run from luxurious pool villas, arresting 15 individuals believed to have defrauded compatriots in China.
Pool Villas as Scam Hubs
Two opulent residences in the Saraphi district, Nong Phueng sub-district, served as the command centers for a sophisticated scam syndicate. One property commanded a monthly rent of 80,000 baht, while the other incurred a substantial cost of 100,000 baht per month.
On June 8, 2026, around midday, special units from the Cyber Police (PCT) of Region 5, led by Major General Thawatchai Pongwiwattanachai, executed search warrants issued by the Chiang Mai Provincial Court.
50 Mobile Phones and 10 Laptops Seized
In the first villa, authorities apprehended ten suspects – nine men and one woman. A search of the second property yielded five more foreign nationals, comprising four men and one woman.
Law enforcement officials confiscated digital tools of deception: a total of ten laptops and fifty smartphones. These devices were considered a treasure trove for investigators to meticulously trace the fraud networks.
Monthly Salary of 50,000 Baht in Crypto
According to police reports, the perpetrators received a fixed monthly salary of 50,000 baht each, disbursed in cryptocurrency. Major General Thawatchai emphasized that the group had been active in Thailand for approximately three months.
The scam method was described as both simple and effective: victims in China were pressured with fabricated scenarios involving alleged insurance claims or package delivery issues. The fraudsters instructed them to transfer money for verification.
Data Purchase from China
Investigators believe the syndicate purchased victim data from China. This information was used to build trust with targets, ultimately leading them to agree to payments.
Once funds were transferred, the money was promptly remitted to a boss or manager. The base in Chiang Mai provided an ideal location to covertly orchestrate their operations.
Tourist Visas and Illegal Stays
The majority of those arrested had entered the country on a 60-day tourist visa. In many instances, their authorized stay had long expired, meaning they were residing illegally in the kingdom.
One Chinese national, identified as Mr. Lin Dao Quan, had no record of entry in the system, strongly suggesting an illegal arrival.
Homeowners Under Scrutiny
Police are now also focusing on the landlords of the luxury properties. Immigration police reviews revealed that no notification of the foreign tenants was ever filed for the houses.
Investigations are underway against the owners for failure to report their foreign tenants to the immigration authorities. This is considered a serious offense with the potential for significant penalties.
Investigations Expanded Internationally
Following the recent arrests, police intend to substantially broaden their investigations. The gathered intelligence will be shared with Chinese authorities.
Initial findings indicate that the masterminds and financiers of the operation are not based in Thailand. Close cooperation with Chinese authorities is expected to bring these overseas puppeteers to justice.