BANGKOK: Police at Suvarnabhumi Airport have apprehended a suspect linked to a gang accused of kidnapping and extorting 12 million baht from a Chinese businessman in the Ratchada area. The arrest occurred as the suspect, identified as Mr. Liu Bu, was preparing to board a flight to Phnom Penh.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Liu Bu was intercepted by the investigation team at the airport’s immigration checkpoint. He was scheduled to depart on Sky Angkor Airlines flight ZA679 when authorities detained him to coordinate with the Suthisan Police Station for further legal proceedings. Pol. Col. Chengron Rimphidi, Commander of Immigration Bureau 2, stated that the arrest followed a collaborative effort among various agencies using the APPS system, which flagged Mr. Liu Bu as a suspect.
Upon his arrest, police conducted a search of Mr. Liu Bu’s belongings, uncovering a large number of plastic wristbands, cash, and a Cedeao (West African) passport. The investigation into the incident revealed that the kidnapping
took place in the Ratchadaphisek area, known for its business activities. However, local residents reported that the company involved in the incident was rarely operational, with only two Chinese men seen entering and exiting the premises infrequently.
These men, believed to be the company owners, were observed communicating in English and were thought to be Chinese. They maintained a low profile, seldom interacting with others in the area, and would have food delivered to the company’s entrance. On the day of the kidnapping, a witness reported no unusual activity or suspicious vehicles in the vicinity.
This case is part of a concerning trend in Bangkok and Thailand, where foreign nationals, often familiar with local assets and businesses, engage in kidnapping and extortion. Such crimes are frequently perpetrated by groups from the same nationality, potentially targeting gray businesses for their illicit activities.