Three Fake Immigration Officers Arrested for Charity Card Scam
Three men posing as immigration officers were arrested in Rayong for forcing Chinese migrant workers to buy charity cards under threat of deportation inspections, with items stolen from victims' homes during the scams.
Three suspects posing as immigration officers have been arrested after targeting Chinese migrant workers in Ban Kaai District, Rayong. The suspects allegedly forced victims to buy charity cards, threatening to bring in real immigration staff for inspections if they refused, and items went missing from residences after the suspects left.
Rayong Provincial Police and Nong Krub Station officers tracked the suspects to a house in Bo Win Subdistrict, Si Racha District, Chonburi, where they seized a black Toyota Revo pickup truck and recovered two damaged vehicle license plates along with documents related to extortion attempts and evidence. Investigation continues to identify additional victims.
Deputy Commander of Immigration Bureau Region 3, Parinya Klin Kaet, acting as spokesman, used the case as a warning to the public and foreigners. He advised that people should ask for the officer's rank, full name, position, and agency, and request to see their police identification card. Citizens can also photograph or film the person and note details of the vehicle or other identifying information.
Klin Kaet emphasized that the immigration bureau has no policy authorizing officers to solicit donations or sell charity cards in such manner. He instructed the public not to hand over money or belongings without first verifying identification, and to contact local police stations, provincial immigration offices, or the officer's agency directly if unsure.
The public can now use the Police Care mobile application and search the "Police Officer Information" menu to verify details against official police databases. However, finding a matching name does not confirm identity, as scammers may use real officers' names and photos. People should verify the person, their agency, and their assigned duties match. Anyone encountering threats, demands for money, or attempts to be taken elsewhere should avoid confrontation and immediately call 191 or the Police Command Center hotline at 1599.
