The Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) has apprehended a Malaysian-Thai couple suspected of being involved in a large-scale money laundering operation connected to the “Ghost Company” at the Sadao border checkpoint.
On December 19, Mr. Lim, 38, a Malaysian citizen, and his Thai wife, Ms. Saowalak, were arrested at the Sadao Immigration checkpoint in Samnak Kham, Sadao district, Songkhla province. The arrests were made under criminal court warrants for charges of money laundering.
The couple’s arrest is linked to an extensive investment fraud scheme involving fake apps “Nicshare” and “ComonApps.” The scammers promised victims high returns from stock market investments, impersonating well-known stock market figures to appear legitimate. The scam has reportedly caused damages exceeding 800 million baht ($23 million) to multiple victims.Police investigations have revealed that the operation involved both Thai and foreign nationals, with the money flow reaching approximately 5 billion baht ($144 million). As a result, arrest warrants have been issued for over 50 individuals connected to the case.Investigators have revealed that Mr. Lim and Ms. Saowalak played central roles in the operation, converting illicitly obtained funds into digital currencies to hide their origin. They were also allegedly involved with the “Ghost Company” network, which set up shell companies to create fake bank accounts that facilitated illegal business activities.
The arrest occurred after authorities received intelligence about Mr. Lim’s planned entry into Thailand via the Sadao checkpoint. Ms. Saowalak was arrested shortly after, as she attempted to meet her husband in the parking area of the immigration checkpoint.
Both suspects admitted to recruiting individuals to establish legitimate companies that would open bank accounts, which were then sold to others. Their client network reportedly spanned several ASEAN countries. Financial investigations have linked these accounts to call center scams, online gambling operations, and other illicit businesses.
This case follows a similar recent arrest in Bangkok involving another Malaysian-Thai couple accused of money laundering through gambling websites. Investigators noted a recurring pattern where foreign nationals marry Thai citizens to acquire legal business ownership rights, facilitating money laundering activities.
The investigation is ongoing, as authorities continue to track down additional suspects and investigate related financial transactions.
