“Fraudster posing as a Royal Bureau official caught scamming restaurants in Bangkok. Always verify credentials before entering into any transactions. #BangkokScam #RoyalBureauScam #ThailandTourism”
Arrest at the Airport
A 29-year-old man, Chulathipok Palakawong Na Ayutthaya, was apprehended at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Thailand on October 13, 2023. He was returning from Myanmar when the police arrested him based on an outstanding warrant issued by the Criminal Court on May 31. Chulathipok faced multiple charges, including the falsification of official documents, use of forged documents, and defrauding others.
The Alleged Royal Scam
Chulathipok is accused of posing as an official affiliated with the Bureau of the Royal Household. Between 2021 and 2023, he allegedly contacted various restaurants to make reservations for VIPs, claiming to represent royal interests.
Fifteen businesses fell victim to his scheme, and he reportedly charged them for ancillary expenses such as pins and photographs. The financial damages are estimated to be nearly 1 million baht, according to the police.
Fleeing and Capture
Following complaints from the affected business operators, Chulathipok fled to Myanmar to avoid facing the consequences of his alleged fraudulent activities. Myanmar officials tipped off Thai police about his imminent return, and officers were dispatched to Suvarnabhumi Airport to apprehend him as soon as he landed.
Suspect’s Claims and Multiple Arrest Warrants
Upon initial questioning, Chulathipok admitted to posing as an official but denied accepting any money from the businesses. The police noted that there are three other arrest warrants on similar charges against him.
Impact on the Restaurants and Steps Forward
The arrest of Chulathipok has brought relief to the fifteen businesses who were allegedly defrauded by his scheme. With his apprehension, the affected restaurant owners can now seek justice and potentially recoup some of their losses. The case serves as a reminder for businesses to remain vigilant and verify the credentials of individuals claiming to represent official entities before entering into any transactions or agreements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the nature of the fraud committed by Chulathipok Palakawong Na Ayutthaya?
Chulathipok is accused of posing as an official affiliated with the Bureau of the Royal Household and contacting various restaurants to make reservations for VIPs, claiming to represent royal interests. He reportedly charged the businesses for ancillary expenses, causing financial damages estimated to be nearly 1 million baht.
How was Chulathipok apprehended by the police?
Chulathipok fled to Myanmar to avoid facing the consequences of his alleged fraudulent activities. Myanmar officials tipped off Thai police about his imminent return, and officers were dispatched to Suvarnabhumi Airport to apprehend him as soon as he landed.
What can businesses learn from this incident to avoid falling victim to similar scams?
The case serves as a reminder for businesses to remain vigilant and verify the credentials of individuals claiming to represent official entities before entering into any transactions or agreements.
