Thai police have arrested three women accused of playing key roles in a romance scam network allegedly run by a group of Nigerians that defrauded victims of more than six billion baht (approximately $165 million).
According to a report by the Bangkok Post on Monday, November 3, the suspects identified only as Jutharat, Janjira, and Jiraphan, were apprehended on Sunday, November 2, in coordinated operations across Chachoengsao, Nonthaburi, and Yala provinces.
Authorities said the women face charges of involvement in transnational crime and money laundering. The arrests were part of a wider operation led by Pol Maj Gen Pattanasak Bupphasuwan, commander of the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD).
Police investigations revealed that the alleged network has been operating since 2019, using fake online relationships to lure Thai victims into sending large sums of money via digital platforms. Victims were reportedly manipulated through emotional deception, believing they were in genuine romantic relationships, before being persuaded to make transfers for fabricated emergencies, business opportunities, or gifts.
Investigators allege that the three women served as local facilitators for the syndicate, recruiting individuals to open “mule” bank accounts used to receive the fraudulent funds. They allegedly handled withdrawals and earned commissions ranging from 2% to 10% per transaction.
Police said the suspects have denied all allegations, but confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and that more arrests could follow as authorities continue tracing the flow of illicit funds.
