Chinese fugitive running luxury scams in Thailand arrested

Thai immigration authorities have apprehended a Chinese fugitive running an illicit tour operation in Bangkok. Following a tip-off about an Asian man suspected of working and residing illegally in Thailand, officers conducted a thorough investigation.

The fugitive, Duan, a 42-year-old Chinese national, was found residing in a luxury condominium in the Ramkhamhaeng district. Duan was already wanted in China for a significant fraud case.

Samut Sakhon Immigration Police monitored Duan’s activities and uncovered a well-organized operation. He regularly left his residential compound to escort groups of Chinese tourists to their accommodations, offering bespoke tours for privacy-conscious business travelers who preferred avoiding mainstream tour companies.

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With mounting evidence, immigration officers arrested Duan as he assisted clients at a luxury hotel in the Ratchadaphisek area. A thorough inspection revealed that his residence permit had expired on February 3. Consequently, Duan was charged with working without authorization and overstaying his visa. Further investigations uncovered more about his criminal activities.

Coordination with Chinese security authorities revealed Duan’s criminal past. In January of the previous year, Duan had impersonated a regional sales manager for a prestigious wine company, convincing several retailers to purchase high-end rare wines at a supposed 10% discount. He persuaded his victims to transfer nearly 2 million yuan (approximately 10 million baht) to his account, only to disappear without delivering the promised goods, according to KhaoSod English.

The Public Security Bureau in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, subsequently issued an arrest warrant and revoked his passport.

In related news, a 36-year-old Chinese national was apprehended in Pattaya on April 8, following suspicions of illegal entry into Thailand and unauthorized employment as a guide. On the day of his arrest, Ke Pan was found inside a car, appearing noticeably uneasy upon spotting a patrolling police vehicle, which led to his attempted escape.