Police Arrest Former Government Official for Running Elaborate 'Divine Project' Scam Against 17 Contracting Companies

Police arrested a former government official accused of deceiving 17 contracting companies through a fake "Divine Project" scheme totaling 358 million baht in fraudulent contracts. The investigation revealed that beginning in March 2568, the suspect approached major contracting firms claiming to offer two abandoned projects—a solar energy system and an EV charging station installation project valued at over 32 million baht—offering to act as a broker for a 6 million baht fee.

The suspect arranged meetings at offices where he impersonated a government official using a uniform and forged official documents. He presented fraudulent contracts for the victims to sign, claiming they had already been approved by senior executives. When victims saw signatures and official stamps, they transferred the 6 million baht fee. As victims began work and prepared to claim additional funds of 3.5 million baht, they discovered the QR code linking to a simple Google homepage. Further investigation revealed the projects didn't exist, contracts were entirely fabricated, and executives had never approved anything.

The investigation uncovered this was not an isolated incident. The gang used forged agency names and seals to defraud 17 companies and partnerships with fraudulent contracts totaling over 358 million baht. Officers obtained an arrest warrant and apprehended the suspect in Rayong province. During questioning, the suspect denied all charges and was transferred to the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Court for further legal proceedings.