Thai Police Bust Alleged Romance Scam Ring: 11 Nigerians Among 13 Arrested in Nonthaburi Raid

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Thai authorities have arrested 13 foreign nationals, including 11 Nigerians and two Ivorians, in a major crackdown on an alleged international romance scam operation based in the Muang Thong Thani area of Nonthaburi province.

The raid, carried out on January 19, 2026, by Immigration Police and Pak Kret Police, followed a complaint from a Thai woman who reported losing more than 2 million baht (approximately $60,000 USD) to scammers posing as a wealthy foreign engineer. Police traced suspicious financial transactions to Thai mule accounts, leading investigators to uncover a coordinated network allegedly using fake online profiles to deceive victims—primarily women in Thailand and abroad—into transferring money under the guise of romantic relationships.

During the operation at a luxury condominium, officers seized over 34 pieces of evidence, including four computers and 29 mobile phones containing chat logs, fake profiles, and evidence of money laundering. Some suspects reportedly attempted to flee the scene barefoot but were quickly apprehended. Investigations revealed that the group converted stolen funds into cryptocurrency for overseas transfer.

Of the 13 suspects, eight had overstayed their visas, while five Nigerians admitted to entering Thailand illegally via the Laos border. All face charges related to immigration violations, with further probes into fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud, and money laundering ongoing. One Nigerian national was identified as a potential key figure in the operation.

Thai officials emphasized that romance scams remain a persistent threat, often exploiting vulnerable individuals through social media and dating apps. The arrests highlight ongoing efforts to combat transnational cybercrime networks operating from within the country.

This incident adds to a pattern of similar operations targeting foreign nationals in Thailand, though authorities stress that the majority of foreigners in the kingdom comply with laws and contribute positively.

The suspects are in custody pending formal charges and possible deportation proceedings.

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