Chinese Fugitive Wanted for $310M Fraud Arrested in Bangkok
High-Profile Arrest in Bangkok
BANGKOK — Thai immigration police have arrested a Chinese national wanted for a massive embezzlement case totaling 2.4 billion yuan ($310 million). The fugitive had been hiding in central Bangkok under a false identity.
Biometric System Uncovers False Identity
Police Major General Prachya Prasansuk, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, provided details of the arrest on March 22. Intelligence reports led authorities to suspect a Chinese national, identified as Zhang Wei (alias), of violating immigration laws.
Utilizing Thailand’s biometric database verification system, officers discovered that Zhang Wei closely resembled another individual named Du Nan, who held Vanuatu citizenship. Further investigation confirmed that both identities belonged to the same person.
Tracking the Fugitive’s Movements
Authorities closely monitored the suspect’s accommodation records and visa extensions. On March 12, after Du Nan’s authorized stay expired without an extension request, immigration officers detected his movements at a luxury hotel in the Ratchaprasong area.
The fugitive avoided detection by staying in his room and ordering room service instead of visiting common areas. However, on March 21 at 2:30 PM, he finally appeared in the hotel lobby, giving officers an opportunity to make their move.
Attempted Deception and Arrest
When approached by officers, Du Nan denied being Chinese and claimed his Vanuatu passport had been lost, showing only a photo of the document with an expired 60-day tourist visa. He was immediately detained for overstaying his visa.
International Fraud and Legal Action
Further investigations, in coordination with international law enforcement agencies, confirmed that Du Nan—posing as Zhang Wei—was responsible for embezzling billions from a major construction company in Shandong Province, China.
The case has now been handed over to the relevant authorities for further legal proceedings and possible extradition.
Authorities Credit Biometric System for Arrest
Police Major General Prachya praised the biometric system and foreign resident registration regulations for playing a crucial role in the suspect’s capture. He also urged the public to continue reporting foreign residents to immigration authorities to enhance national security.
