Thai authorities have arrested six police officers and one civilian accused of extorting 165,000 USDT from a Chinese-Vanuatu national by staging a fake arrest with a counterfeit warrant.
The victim, along with his wife and family, filed a complaint at the Bang Sue police station, detailing how a group of nine individuals posed as law enforcement to carry out the scheme.
Fake warrant and initial threats
According to the complaint, the group presented a fake search warrant in Thailand bearing a convincing government emblem. Unable to read Thai, the victim allowed the search, trusting the document’s legitimacy. With the help of interpreters, the officers informed him that he was accused of possessing a fake passport allegedly reported by a Filipino national. The group searched his residence and seized his electronic devices, including phones and a computer.
The officers initially demanded a staggering 10 million USDT, threatening to escalate charges if the victim did not comply. They also accused him of hiring a foreign housemaid illegally. However, the victim refused, maintaining his innocence and stating he could not afford the sum.
Negotiations lead to forced transfer
In a bid to intensify pressure, the suspects took the victim to a government building, where they continued their demands. Eventually, they negotiated the “bail” amount down to 296,000 USDT (10 million Baht). After further discussion, the victim agreed to transfer 165,000 USDT. Following the transaction, the officers forced him to record a video, stating that no wrongdoing had occurred.
Additional demand and investigation
Days after the initial extortion, one of the officers reportedly contacted the victim again via Telegram, demanding an additional 20,895 USDT to disclose the identity of his accuser. The victim received no information in return and sought legal assistance to investigate the matter.
Following the complaint, the Thai Metropolitan and Cyber Police launched an investigation. They identified 12 suspects involved in the scheme and have arrested seven. Three more cyber officers later surrendered. All suspects have denied the charges and were released on bail. Police investigators are expected to release a full report within 30 days of the initial complaint.