Chiang Mai: A call center gang has successfully deceived students in Chiang Mai, extracting over 2 million baht from them and leaving many parents stressed and penniless. Some students, under the gang’s influence, have resorted to carrying knives and storming police stations to taunt officers. Phu Ping Police Station alone has reported over 300 victims falling prey to this scheme.

According to Thai News Agency, CCTV footage captured a fourth-year female student riding her motorcycle to Phuping Ratchaniwet Police Station in the Mueang District of Chiang Mai Province. She was seen pushing a wheelchair back and forth before brandishing a knife in the complaint room, claiming she needed to meet a police officer who was not present. She then requested to meet Pol. Col. Manatchai Intheun, Superintendent of Phuping Ratchaniwet Police Station, claiming she had committed a murder.

Detectives at the station noticed the student’s suspicious behavior, particularly her use of earphones, which suggested she was receiving instructions. After engaging with her, the police persuaded her to put down the knife and remove the earphones. It became apparent that the student had been manipulated by a call center gang member impersonating a police officer, who had instructed her to disrupt the police because she lacked the funds to transfer. This incident occurred on June 3.

Further investigation revealed that, on the same day, more than 10 students from Chiang Mai University were duped by the call center gang. Among them was a 19-year-old second-year male student who lost over 2 million baht, making him the most financially affected victim.

Associate Professor Prasert Rerkriangkrai, Vice President of Chiang Mai University, along with the Superintendent of Phuping Rajanives Police Station, addressed the media regarding the university students being targeted. Associate Professor Prasert assured that there was no breach of student data from the university, suggesting that fraudsters have alternative means of accessing student information. The university is actively working with the police to educate students on fraud prevention during orientation and through dormitory committee warnings.

Pol. Col. Manatchai disclosed that since the start of the year, Phu Ping Rajanives Police Station has documented nearly 300 online scam victims, predominantly Chiang Mai University students. Many were tricked into purchasing non-existent products or transferring money under false pretenses, including promises of extra income or forged documents for scholarships and visas. The scams have resulted in losses exceeding 13 million baht, with arrests limited to mule account holders, leaving the main culprits at large.

Regarding the incident involving the fourth-year female student, she explained that she blindly followed the gang’s orders, feeling almost hypnotized, and had been avoiding ending the call since June 2. Fortunately, she did not transfer any money, but on that day alone, nine others fell victim, collectively losing over 3 million baht.