PATTAYA – Police raided a residential property in Jomtien on Tuesday, arresting 25 Chinese nationals accused of running an unlawful online loan service targeting borrowers in China.

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The operation, conducted at a house on Jomtien Sai 2 Road, uncovered 24 men and one woman working at computer stations equipped with routers, mobile phones, and financial ledgers containing client data in Chinese. Authorities confirmed all suspects held tourist visas but lacked valid work permits, with one individual reportedly overstaying his visa by five years.

Investigators allege the group operated a digital lending platform that extended unauthorized loans to customers in China. Seized evidence included transaction records, electronic devices, and communication tools believed linked to the illicit operation.

Pattaya Police Superintendent Colonel Thanapong Photi emphasized the severity of the offenses, stating, “This was not just a violation of immigration laws but a sophisticated financial operation exploiting Thai territory.” The suspects face charges including illegal assembly and unauthorized employment, with potential additional counts pending further forensic examination of seized devices.

The bust follows increased scrutiny of foreign-run online businesses in Thailand’s tourist hubs, particularly those targeting overseas markets. Immigration officials noted the case highlights vulnerabilities in visa oversight, with the five-year overstay exposing systemic gaps.

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All detainees remain in custody at Pattaya Police Station as authorities coordinate with Chinese counterparts to investigate the scheme’s transnational connections.

-Thailand News (TN)