KOH SAMUI – An Israeli man wanted for a extensive online ticket scam targeting his compatriots has been apprehended on Koh Samui. O. A. was arrested on November 16th by Surat Thani immigration officers following a coordinated effort between Thai authorities and the Israeli Embassy’s security liaison.

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According to Pol. Lt. Gen. Chuthares Yinyongdamrongkul, Commander of Immigration Division 6, the suspect allegedly defrauded numerous victims through social media platforms by selling non-existent tickets to concerts, football matches, and other high-profile events. The fraudulent scheme resulted in losses totaling several tens of millions of baht before victims filed official complaints in Israel.

Investigators revealed that O. A. fled to Thailand upon learning about the criminal complaints, moving between accommodations in Phuket, Pattaya, and finally Koh Samui in an attempt to evade capture. During questioning, the suspect admitted to selling “ghost tickets” and authorities found photographic evidence of concert tickets on his mobile phone that appeared intended for further fraudulent activities.

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Pol. Col. Naruwat Phuttawiro has initiated procedures to revoke O. A.’s permission to remain in Thailand. The suspect will be deported to Israel to face prosecution, while immigration authorities nationwide have been instructed to enhance monitoring of foreign nationals to prevent similar crimes.

-Thailand News (TN)