Famous Buddha Amulet Dealer Ton Bangkhae Denies Fraud Charges
Police arrested prominent amulet dealer Ton Bangkhae on fraud charges for selling ordinary cameras as limited-edition models at inflated prices, with authorities estimating 40-50 victims and damages around 40 million baht.
Police have made significant progress in the arrest of Tonthong Sukhkaen, known as Ton Bangkhae, a prominent amulet dealer. Deputy Police Commissioner Tasaphoom Charupatchya, head of the Economic Crime Suppression Division, revealed that officers conducted searches at two locations in Nonthaburi province—Ton Bangkhae's residence and his amulet business—and seized multiple pieces of evidence including approximately 10 amulet viewing cameras, product brochures, documents, shirts, and company seals.
The Economic Crime Suppression Division emphasized that this case is separate from the "Madame Khaeng" case under the jurisdiction of the Anti-Corruption Bureau, and they are handling only the amulet camera fraud. To date, 12 victims—mostly Ton Bangkhae fans—have filed complaints with combined damages of approximately 3.2 million baht. The scheme involved advertising limited-edition amulet cameras but selling ordinary models worth around 1,000 baht at inflated prices of up to 10,000 baht each.
Police estimate total victims at 40–50 people with cumulative damages of around 40 million baht, though some victims have declined to pursue charges after receiving compensation. Authorities denied reports that Ton Bangkhae fled, stating that officers presented an arrest warrant at his residence and he voluntarily came to meet police. Ton Bangkhae initially denied all allegations and refused further cooperation during interrogation. Investigators have charged him with fraud, public fraud, and violations of the Computer Crime Act for submitting false information. Preliminary financial tracking and evidence suggest Ton Bangkhae acted alone with no identified accomplices.
