Police have apprehended a Chinese national in Pattaya for allegedly operating a fraudulent online marketplace, seizing assets valued at approximately 9 million baht. The suspect, identified only as Li, 30, was arrested at a condominium in Na Kluea, Bang Lamung district, following an investigation by the Technology Crime Suppression Division.

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The case unfolded after a victim filed a complaint about a Facebook group named World Dealing Market, which purported to facilitate second-hand goods transactions among its 200-plus members. New members were instructed to pay a 189-baht joining fee, supposedly refundable later, and were then given access to a website. Despite its suspicious appearance, the group administrator assured users of its legitimacy, claiming it was operated by a registered company.

Police have arrested a Chinese man at a condominium in Pattaya for allegedly running a fake online market platform, and impounded assets worth about 9 million baht.

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The victim transferred a total of 20,700 baht after being told three transactions were required to “activate the system.” When withdrawal attempts failed, the administrator demanded an additional 50,000 baht to “fix” the issue, prompting the victim to realize it was a scam.

Authorities traced the illicit transactions to Pattaya, where a mule account holder allegedly funneled the money to Li. During the raid, police confiscated 746,530 baht in cash, three cars, five mobile phones, two bank books, and luxury items, collectively worth over 9 million baht.

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Li has denied the allegations and remains in custody as the investigation continues. The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat online fraud schemes targeting unsuspecting victims through social media platforms.

-Thailand News (TN)