Police Bust Foreign Nominee Scheme in Chachoengsao
Police arrested 54 suspects across 33 companies in Chachoengsao that used Thai nominees to illegally control businesses and land worth over 235 million baht, with authorities seizing more than 500 rai of property in the operation.
On July 17, 2025, Deputy National Police Commander Pol. Gen. Samran Nualmaa announced results of a crackdown on foreign nationals using Thai nominees to control businesses and land in Chachoengsao province. The operation involved cooperation between the provincial administration, police, Department of Business Development, Department of Lands, and other agencies, resulting in swift and efficient action.
Chachoengsao has 76,343 registered juristic entities, of which 28,463 have foreign shareholders—a normal investment pattern. However, screening identified 14,264 suspicious companies. After analysis, 435 companies raised initial concerns, and 33 companies with clear evidence were selected for prosecution in the first phase. The operation resulted in 41 search warrants and 4 arrest warrants.
Prosecution cases were divided into two groups: Group One involved 19 companies and 19 cases using nominees to operate businesses, with 16 land plots totaling over 500 rai seized. Group Two involved 14 companies and 14 cases of illegal land holding, with 16 land plots covering approximately 4 rai and 3 ngan, resulting in 45 summons (33 for foreigners, 12 for Thai nationals) and 14 search warrants.
The operation identified combined damages exceeding 235.2 million baht and 54 suspects of various nationalities. Major networks targeted included the "Blazhevichus" family network, operating through 12 companies and controlling 11 houses, and a network involving Igor with connections to 19 companies and 18 residences.
Deputy National Police Commander Samran emphasized that Thailand welcomes tourists and foreign investment, which benefits the economy. However, all investments must comply with Thai law. Companies must have Thai shareholders holding 51 percent and genuine foreign partners holding 49 percent who actively participate in operations—not nominee arrangements designed to circumvent the law. He cited examples of suspects like Igor who admitted not knowing the Thai shareholders listed as partners, confirming the use of nominee schemes. Thailand cannot tolerate communities being advertised as foreign-owned or managed separately by foreign groups, as all must operate under the same legal framework.
