Bangkok: The gang that defrauded people into investing in herbal drinks has been shut down, resulting in a loss of over 3 million baht. Police have successfully dismantled a global fraud operation, arresting the owner of the account that received funds from the herbal drink investment scam.

According to Thai News Agency, authorities from the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) have arrested Mr. Thawin, 32, under a warrant issued by the Bangkok South Criminal Court. He faces charges of fraud, public deception, fraudulent loaning, and the entry of false computer data. The arrest took place on the Na Kae-Sakon Nakhon Road in Nakhon Phanom Province.

In 2015, Mr. Thawin and his associates posed as company executives, enticing investors to put money into a direct-selling herbal drink business. They promised high returns of 20-40% per month, or up to 480% per year, alongside special privileges such as international trips, gold bars, and a website to enhance credibility. Initially, the group paid returns to encourage further investments but subsequently stopped payments and evaded refunds. The company eventually closed, leaving 18 victims with losses totaling over 3 million baht.

Police had previously apprehended two members of the gang, with Mr. Thawin being the last key figure remaining at large. Serving as a company director and account holder, he had fled to work as a tractor salesman in Nakhon Phanom Province. This led to his recent arrest.