Police Assert Connection Between Ming Chen Sun Case and Cambodian Scammer Gang; No Links to Thai Politicians Found
Police linked a Chinese national injured in a Chon Buri car crash to a Cambodian scammer gang after discovering C4 explosives and weapons at his Pattaya residence, though investigations found no connections to Thai politicians or planned at
At a National Police Office briefing on May 13, Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwphayom, the national police spokesman, provided updates on the security case involving Ming Chen Sun, a 31-year-old Chinese national who was injured in a vehicle accident in Chon Buri province. Following the crash, authorities conducted a search of a luxury residence in Pattaya where they discovered a large cache of weapons including C4 explosives, M16 rifles, and other ammunition hidden inside.
The investigation has progressed significantly after police gathered additional evidence including witness statements, forensic evidence, and digital data. Investigators discovered chat histories, weapon training photographs, and evidence of weapons accumulation dating back to late last year. According to the evidence, Ming Chen Sun has clear connections to a scammer network operating in Cambodia, though police are still investigating unconfirmed reports that the suspect received murder contracts in Cambodia.
Regarding speculation about connections to Thai politicians, Trairong stated that current investigations have found no evidence linking the suspect to any Thai politicians. He also confirmed that there is no indication the network intends to commit sabotage or violence against Thai citizens within Thailand's borders.
The case has expanded from one suspect to six individuals total, with additional charges expected to follow. When asked about security concerns after the suspect reportedly suffered severe stress and seizures requiring hospital treatment, authorities confirmed that the suspect remains under the Department of Corrections' care with strict security measures implemented by Police Region 2 under orders from Police Commander Kittarat Punthaipetch, despite the suspect's right to medical treatment.
The National Police Office is reviewing the case and upgrading foreign national screening procedures. The Immigration Bureau has been ordered to intensify monitoring of foreign nationals with unusual long-term stays and coordinate with local police to inspect residences and monitor behavior in tourist areas.
Within the next three months, immigration authorities will accelerate database checks on tourists while integrating with the Center for Transnational Crime Suppression and related agencies. A Joint Task Force will be established to investigate foreign nationals suspected of criminal activity. Long-term plans include consolidating criminal databases into the "One Police" system to enable nationwide access to information and more efficient criminal tracking.
When asked about potential damage to the police force's reputation, Trairong noted that Ming Chen Sun was not on any country's watch list.
