Prominent Amulet Dealer 'Num Nakhon Pathom' Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison

On August 20, 2026, the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Court delivered a verdict in a criminal case involving Panya Kraipakdikul, widely known as 'Num Nakhon Pathom,' a prominent figure in Thailand’s amulet trading community. According to a report by Khaosod Online, the court sentenced the defendant to 24 months in prison, consisting of four counts of six months each. Additionally, the court ordered him to pay a debt of 23 million baht following the failure of mediation efforts between the parties involved.

The legal proceedings were initiated after the defendant issued multiple bounced checks. While the defense had argued that the dispute should be treated as a civil matter, the court proceeded with the criminal charges. This case is reportedly linked to a broader 75-million-baht amulet fraud investigation involving 'Madame Keng.'

For residents and visitors, this case highlights the high-stakes nature of the Thai amulet market, where significant financial transactions often occur. While this verdict addresses a specific criminal dispute, it serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in high-value trading within this niche industry. It remains to be confirmed how this sentencing will impact the ongoing, larger investigation involving Madame Keng and whether the defendant will pursue an appeal against the court's decision.