Law
Thai Crime Suppression Division Arrests Alleged Fraud Ringleader 'Yai Sor'
Police have apprehended a 71-year-old woman accused of leading a long-running fraud syndicate that allegedly swindled a Phuket millionaire out of 9 million baht.
On August 20, 2026, the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) of Thailand announced the arrest of 71-year-old Tiwalai, known as 'Yai Sor,' following an operation led by CSD officials. According to Khaosod Online, the suspect was apprehended based on outstanding arrest warrants issued by the Phuket Kwaeng Court in April 2025 and the Kalasin Provincial Court in August 2026.
Authorities allege that Yai Sor acted as the leader of a criminal group involved in a 'Kam Tua' (bean-counting) gambling scam. The specific case leading to her arrest involves a Phuket-based millionaire who reportedly lost 9 million baht to the syndicate. Police records suggest that the suspect has been active for approximately 15 years, with total estimated damages across various cases reaching over 64 million baht. She faces charges including conspiracy to commit fraud and involvement in a criminal organization.
For residents and travelers, this case highlights the risks associated with unregulated gambling activities, which are frequently used as fronts for sophisticated fraud schemes. While the arrest marks a significant development in these long-standing investigations, the legal proceedings are ongoing. It remains to be confirmed how many additional victims may be linked to the syndicate’s activities over the past decade and a half, as the judicial process continues to unfold in the relevant provincial courts.