CHIANG MAI — Thai authorities have launched a major operation targeting Chinese criminal networks operating in northern Thailand following the kidnapping and murder of a Chinese national whose body was discovered in Mae Rim forest. The victim, identified as Yang, was allegedly lured to his death by associates involved in transnational illegal activities.

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Police Region 5 commander Pol. Lt. Gen. Kritthaphon Yisakhon confirmed the victim was tricked into traveling from Laos to Chiang Mai by a contact named Hukang, who promised a business meeting related to illicit operations. Instead, Yang was taken to a rented house in Hang Dong district, where suspects Xang (the property owner) and Wang (the alleged killer) reportedly murdered him before dumping his body.

Hukang, now a key suspect, is believed to have participated in ransom demands before the killing. While Xang remains in custody, Wang has reportedly fled to Cambodia, prompting cross-border coordination with Interpol.

CHIANG MAI – A missing Chinese man was found dead on Monday evening, believed murdered by Chinese abductors who had lured him from Laos and demanded 3 million baht for his release.

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Authorities revealed both the victim and suspects were linked to human trafficking and call center scams, exploiting student visas to operate in Thailand. Pol. Maj. Gen. Worapong Khamlue confirmed charges will include kidnapping, premeditated murder, and corpse concealment, with additional warrants expected as the probe expands.

Police Region 5 has prioritized dismantling these networks, vowing to scrutinize visa holders suspected of criminal activity. “We will root out these operations threatening our communities,” Kritthaphon stated.

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The case highlights growing concerns over foreign-led crime syndicates in tourist-heavy regions. Immigration officials are now reviewing student visa approvals for potential abuse, while law enforcement intensifies raids on suspected safehouses.

-Thailand News (TN)