The suspect, identified only as ‘Mr Wang’, 32, was apprehended at a condominium in Patong on Wednesday (Apr 1) following a request for cooperation from the Chinese Embassy in Thailand.
The arrest follows directives from Immigration Bureau chief Pol Lt Gen Panumas Bunyalak and senior officers to intensify efforts to track down foreign fugitives and individuals involved in transnational crime operating in Thailand.
According to Immigration Division 6, Chinese authorities had issued an arrest warrant for Wang on charges of contract fraud. The warrant was issued by the Ministry of Public Security in Xinmin District, Shenyang City, Liaoning Province.
Investigators allege that Wang defrauded more than 30 victims by falsely claiming to have billiards equipment available for sale. He reportedly used fabricated delivery videos and false information to convince victims to sign contracts and transfer money. After receiving payments, he failed to deliver the goods, cut off contact and fled overseas.
Total damages are estimated at more than B5 million.
Phuket Immigration Police launched an investigation after receiving the request via the Royal Thai Police’s Foreign Affairs Division. Officers traced Mr Wang to a condo in Patong.
The arrest team, led by Pol Lt Col Adisorn Boonchum and Pol Lt Theerapol Nitichat, located Wang outside the building. After identifying themselves, officers questioned Wang, who admitted his identity.
Authorities confirmed that Wang had entered Thailand on a tourist visa that was still valid at the time of his arrest. However, Immigration Division 6 approved the revocation of his permission to stay in the Kingdom on the grounds that he was the subject of a foreign arrest warrant.
Mr Wang was taken to Phuket Immigration Office, where he was formally notified of the revocation order and detained for further legal proceedings.
Officials confirmed that he will face deportation to China to stand trial.