Hong Kong Businessman and Friend of Famous Actor Liu Dehua Lodges Fraud Report After Nearly Losing 200 Million Baht to Scammers
A Hong Kong businessman nearly lost 200 million baht to a Thai couple operating an investment scam at Suvarnabhumi Airport before a friend warned him they were notorious fraudsters with prior convictions.
A 55-year-old Hong Kong businessman, Mr. Chan, filed a complaint with the Central Investigation Bureau on May 25, 2025, seeking legal advice after nearly becoming a victim of a scam by a Thai couple operating as investment fraudsters. The couple allegedly defrauded him by claiming they could secure foreign currency exchange business rights within Suvarnabhumi Airport with high returns, causing him to prepare nearly 200 million baht, or approximately 6 million US dollars, for investment.
Mr. Chan revealed through an interpreter that he narrowly escaped losing a substantial sum when an acquaintance warned him that the couple were notorious national-level scammers, adding that this same friend had previously lost over 20 million baht to them. Upon investigation, both suspects were found to have pending fraud and deception charges in Thai courts and prior criminal convictions.
When Mr. Chan confronted the couple about the deception, the husband initially denied being married to the woman and denied involvement in any fraud. However, further investigation revealed they had recently honeymooned in Japan and other countries, confirming their collaboration in the scheme.
Mr. Chan explained that the perpetrators had created an elaborate social media profile appearing luxurious, frequently posting photographs with high-society figures, senior government officials, and prominent Thai politicians to establish credibility. Alarmed by the incident, he decided to consult with the Central Investigation Bureau to pursue legal action and serve as a warning to prevent further frauds that could damage Thailand's international reputation.
