Thailand and Taiwan Bust Transnational Call-Center Scam Ring

Thailand and Taiwan launched a joint operation targeting a transnational call-center scam network allegedly run by a Taiwanese mafia group, arresting more than 20 Taiwanese suspects in Cambodia and uncovering losses of more than 200 million New Taiwan dollars. The operation was led by the Anti-Online Scam Center under the direction of Pol Gen Thana Chuwong, deputy national police chief and director of the center, and Pol Lt Gen Jiraphop Phuridet, assistant national police chief and deputy director. The Central Investigation Bureau, headed by Pol Lt Gen Natsak Chaochanasai, also joined forces with Taiwan's Criminal Investigation Bureau in the crackdown.

The case began after Taiwan's Criminal Investigation Bureau investigated a Taiwanese transnational call-center network operating from Cambodia. The group allegedly posed as police officers and called victims to deceive them. At least 46 victims have been identified, with total losses exceeding 200 million New Taiwan dollars, equivalent to several hundred million baht.

Investigators found that the network recruited Taiwanese nationals through online job advertisements, claiming to offer well-paid Chinese-language typing jobs with accommodation and meals provided. More than 100 Taiwanese nationals were allegedly lured to Cambodia to work as call-center operators. The network also allegedly worked with Thai travel companies to disguise members' travel arrangements and evade scrutiny by authorities. Fake travel documents, return flight tickets and accommodation bookings were prepared, while Thai credit cards were used to pay for airline tickets to make the gang members' movements less suspicious.

Following the investigation, Thai authorities and the Central Investigation Bureau coordinated intelligence with Taiwan's Criminal Investigation Bureau and tracked down 20 suspects. Those arrested allegedly included the financial backers of the operation, operational leaders and a Taiwanese travel company owner who arranged travel for call-center gang members. Authorities also seized key evidence, including cash, digital assets, bank accounts, ATM cards, electronic devices and vehicles. The evidence will be used in legal proceedings on charges of public fraud and money laundering.

Thai police said they would continue investigating and expanding the case against anyone in Thailand who was involved in the criminal network.