BANGKOK, THAILAND – A major fraud scandal shook Thailand’s entertainment industry as actress Rybena “Nana” Intachai and her husband surrendered to police over alleged multimillion-baht losses.
Actress and husband reported to Central Investigation Bureau
On Tuesday, 3 December, Rybena “Nana” Intachai appeared with her lawyer at the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) after weeks of mounting accusations. She and her husband were suspected of having defrauded friends and acquaintances through business investments. The alleged damage was put at more than 400 million baht (about 10 million euros).
Alleged investment scheme and mounting accusations
According to the allegations, the 31‑year‑old tempted investors into her ventures with the promise of high returns. The promised profits never materialised, and borrowed money was reportedly not repaid. After initially denying any wrongdoing, she later admitted the accusations, according to the account given to investigators.
Anonymous Facebook tips triggered scandal
The case began with anonymous posts on Facebook claiming that a “famous actress with the initial N” had cheated friends. Suspicion quickly focused on Nana, prompting long‑time friends to distance themselves publicly. They shared their disappointment across social media, even though no one disclosed exact sums.
System of promises and loans alleged
As more accounts surfaced, the scale of the scandal became apparent. It reportedly involved a system built on false promises and informal loans between friends and acquaintances. The growing public outcry increased pressure on the actress to respond.
Public apology and bid to repay victims
The actress issued a public apology to all alleged victims, particularly close friends, while declining to reveal detailed information about the transactions. Her plan, she said, was to keep working so she could repay the money. She began selling products in TikTok livestreams in an effort to generate income, supported at times by other celebrities.
Rising pressure amid reports of house search
Despite these efforts, pressure mounted as reports emerged of a possible house search. Public debate intensified over her role and responsibility in the alleged scheme. Questions also grew about how many people had been affected and whether they would ever recover their funds.
Lawyer rejects dramatic arrest narrative
Nana’s lawyer, Saiyud Pengboonchu, rejected reports of a dramatic police operation. He stated there had been no forcible arrest and no house search in the Bangkok district of Phra Khanong. Instead, Nana and her husband, Prinya “Way” Intachai, turned themselves in after arrest warrants were issued.
“They have no intention of fleeing and will fully cooperate.”
said Saiyud Pengboonchu, the couple’s lawyer.
Hours of waiting as questioning delayed
Following their surrender, the pair reportedly waited for hours at the CIB for questioning. They acknowledged two fraud accusations that had been presented to them. A formal plea before a court had not yet taken place.
Police silent as victims seek justice
The Central Investigation Bureau had not issued an official statement on the case while inquiries continued at full speed. Many alleged victims, often long‑standing confidants of the actress, said their trust had been deeply shaken. They were now hoping for a swift and fair judicial process to clarify the extent of the alleged fraud and secure possible compensation.