Thirteen foreign nationals were arrested on June 16, 2025, in a joint Thai-Australian operation targeting an international fraud syndicate accused of orchestrating large-scale investment scams defrauding Australian citizens of over 2 million Australian dollars.
The arrests followed a coordinated investigation, dubbed Operation Firestorm, by Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP). The transnational ring was based in a private residence in Samut Prakan Province, Thailand, which authorities allege was used as a covert call center.
According to investigators, the network used deceptive sales tactics to lure Australian investors into fake bond schemes promising annual returns of 7 to 10 percent over periods of one to three years. Surveillance footage and intelligence showed the suspects operating on a schedule aligned with Sydney business hours.
The house, secured with fencing, CCTV cameras, and concealed garage screens, was located in Bang Phli District. Police obtained a search warrant and raided the property at 8:30 a.m. local time. Officers found an office-like setup where individuals were engaged in live calls with potential victims. Seized evidence included 58 electronic devices, phones, scripts, and marketing materials.
Data retrieved from the computers contained more than 14,000 Australian names, currently under verification by AFP, with confirmed fraud losses totaling at least 2 million Australian dollars. Officials stated none of the individuals held valid work permits.
Immigration records revealed the suspects had entered Thailand legally on various visas, though none had work authorization. All have been charged with criminal conspiracy and illegal employment, with their visas set for revocation and permanent blacklisting.
Those arrested include nationals from Australia (5), the United Kingdom (6), Canada (1), and South Africa (1). The AFP identified two individuals as primary organizers: a 54-year-old Australian and a 56-year-old British citizen.
Thai CIB Commander Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridech and Australian Federal Police Senior Officer Kristie-Lee Cressy presented the case at a joint press conference in Bangkok on June 17, highlighting the cross-border nature of the investigation and its significance to both countries’ law enforcement efforts.
