Originally targeting pickpocketing gangs focusing on foreign tourists at the Emerald Buddha Temple in Bangkok, the operation unearthed a more sophisticated and systemic approach to credit card theft. The alleged gang leader, identified only as Warongrit, was caught trying to erase evidence on his phone during the arrest.
Subsequent investigation revealed the presence of credit card skimming tools and drugs, linking back to a Chinese syndicate known as the “Ah Wei” cartel.
Seized evidence includes 4.6 grams of methamphetamine, credit card skimming devices, credit card usage slips, mobile phones with incriminating evidence, notebooks detailing accomplices, and rolls of paper for money transfer slips.
Further investigation revealed that Warongrit, formerly engaged in legal businesses, had fallen victim to the Covid-19 economic fallout. Then he met Ah Wei, the Chinese mastermind behind the Boss Call Centre, which led to him being involved in coordinating credit-card skimming operations.
Credit: http://nationthailand.com
