Dutch Man Arrested in Bangkok for Alleged Gold Scam Targeting Locals

Bangkok —

On January 14th, 2025, Thailand’s Immigration Bureau announced the arrest of a 43-year-old Dutch national, Mr. Ndille (the police withheld surname), for allegedly orchestrating a gold scam in Bangkok.

The suspect was accused of deceiving victims by selling counterfeit gold pellets, claiming they were smuggled tax-free from Africa and offered at below-market prices.

Investigations revealed the suspect used a sophisticated tactic, providing genuine gold samples to gain trust before switching to counterfeit gold during transactions. Victims were persuaded to pay in US dollars, with a typical sale amounting to $55,000.

Authorities tracked the suspect to a hotel in Watthana District, where they found 5 kilograms of fake gold and smaller bags containing genuine and counterfeit samples. They also seized foreign currencies totaling approximately 117,600 baht. Evidence from the suspect’s phone showed ongoing negotiations with multiple victims via WhatsApp.

One victim, who became suspicious during a transaction at a shopping mall in Phra Nakhon District, reported the incident, leading to the suspect’s arrest, according to the officers.

Immigration officials have revoked Ndille’s visa, citing the fraudulent activities as harmful to Thailand’s reputation, and are preparing to deport him. Efforts to locate accomplices and assist victims are ongoing.

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Kittisak Phalaharn
Kittisak has a passion for outgoings no matter how tough it will be, he will travel with an adventurous style. As for his interests in fantasy, detective genres in novels and sports science books are parts of his soul. He works for Pattaya News as the latest writer.