11 Nigerians Arrested in Thailand Over Alleged International Romance Scam
- Ajibade Omolade Chistianah
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Thai immigration and police authorities have arrested 11 Nigerians in connection with a suspected international romance fraud operation uncovered in the Muang Thong Thani area of Thailand.
The arrests followed the dismantling of a 13-member syndicate believed to be running coordinated online romance scams. Two other suspects from Côte d’Ivoire were also taken into custody during the operation.
Investigations reportedly began after a Thai woman lodged a complaint in late 2025, alleging that she was defrauded by an individual she met online. The suspect, who allegedly posed as a Chinese engineer, is said to have developed a romantic relationship with the victim before persuading her to transfer more than two million baht to accounts later identified as part of a money-laundering scheme.
Security agencies traced the suspicious transactions, which led them to a condominium in Nonthaburi believed to be the group’s operational base. Authorities say members of the syndicate had clearly defined roles, including online impersonators, account recruiters and individuals responsible for withdrawing funds.
Acting on intelligence, officers carried out a joint raid on the location and reportedly found the suspects actively engaging in online scams using multiple electronic devices. Some of the suspects attempted to escape during the operation but were apprehended.
Preliminary findings revealed that eight of the suspects had overstayed their visas, while five Nigerians allegedly entered Thailand illegally through the Laos border. All are facing charges related to immigration violations, alongside fraud-related investigations.
Security operatives seized 34 electronic devices, including mobile phones and computers, which reportedly contained evidence of organised scams involving the impersonation of wealthy European and Asian nationals. Investigators also uncovered indications that proceeds from the alleged scams were transferred to Nigeria using cryptocurrency channels.
Thai authorities say investigations are ongoing to identify additional accomplices and dismantle the wider criminal network.
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