Chaipattana Foundation’s Name Exploited by Criminals
A group of criminals has been deceiving people into investing in fictitious development projects in the Northeastern region of Thailand since 2021. The fraudsters have been using the prestigious and royally established Chaipattana Foundation‘s name to attract innocent victims.
Police Investigation and Arrests
The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) chief, Pol Maj Gen Montree Theskhan, has announced that the police have identified and arrested seven suspects involved in this scam. After gathering substantial evidence, the CSD discovered a total of 10 suspects who were part of this illegal operation.
Several police teams were sent to search for evidence in various locations across Chaiyaphum, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Kalasin, Chiang Mai, Lampang, and Suphan Buri.
Suspects Captured and Charged
The seven arrested suspects have been charged with fraud. They are Somchai Namsom (59), Suriyaphan Sattayapitak (61), Aukkarawat Promkamnoi (59), Prasan Saengsawang (65), Niphon Phukongka (61), Warapon Suwankammun (58), and Somsak Khanthong (51). All suspects have denied the allegations against them.
Confiscated Documents and Equipment
During the arrests, the police seized documents detailing 20 fraudulent projects used to entice victims. Additionally, they confiscated 18 passbooks, three ATM cards, and four mobile phones.
More Suspects on the Run
Authorities are still searching for two more suspects, Kittisak Saiprom (58) and Metta Khanthong (53). Meanwhile, another suspect, Lerdpong Chaiwonglerd (60), is currently in prison for a separate criminal offense.
Chaipattana Foundation’s Involvement
The police initially became aware of this fraudulent gang’s activities in 2021, when the Chaipattana Foundation reported them. The criminals managed to swindle over 20 victims out of a total of 1.5 million baht ($45,000). These funds were supposedly invested in 90 non-existent “kaem ling” (monkey cheeks) water retention projects in the Northeast. The suspects falsely claimed to represent a construction company contracted by the foundation.
Be Vigilant and Report Suspicious Activities
The public is urged to be cautious when investing in development projects and to verify the credibility of the organizations involved. If you come across any suspicious activities or organizations, please report them to the local authorities immediately.
