Manny Ita –
Authorities in Thailand have arrested six Nigerian nationals following a police raid on a luxury condominium in Nonthaburi, near Bangkok, over allegations of operating an online romance scam syndicate.
The operation, named “Dark Room Crackdown,” was carried out on May 22 after investigators reportedly tracked suspicious financial activities linked to foreign criminal networks. Officers raided three condominium units located near Phra Nang Klao Bridge in Bang Kraso, Muang district, acting on warrants issued by the Nonthaburi Provincial Court.
The suspects, aged between 23 and 35, were accused of using fake online identities to deceive victims into sending money. According to Thai police, five of the men had overstayed their visas by periods ranging from nearly two years to more than four years, while immigration checks were also conducted on the sixth suspect.
During the raid, officers reportedly seized 18 mobile phones, three laptops and three bank books. Investigators claimed the devices contained alleged romance scam conversations, scripted messages used to manipulate victims emotionally, and AI-generated profile images designed to portray attractive foreign professionals.
Police alleged that the group posed online as successful individuals such as pilots, soldiers, lawyers, engineers and doctors. Investigators said the suspects contacted victims through social media and messaging platforms including Facebook Messenger, WeChat, TikTok, Line and Zalo.
According to authorities, the scam method involved building romantic relationships with victims over time before fabricating stories about parcels or gifts supposedly shipped from overseas but being held by customs officials. Victims were then allegedly persuaded to transfer money to secure the release of the packages.
Thai police stated that many of the alleged victims were older women in Thailand.
The suspects were initially charged with overstaying their visas and participating in a secret society. Authorities said additional charges connected to online fraud and romance scams could follow as investigations continue and more victims are identified.
Police also revealed that some of the suspects allegedly resisted arrest during the operation. Officers reportedly forced entry into some of the rooms after concerns that evidence could be destroyed. One suspect allegedly attempted to flee through a balcony, while another was said to have hidden in a bathroom while trying to send warning messages to others.
Investigators further questioned why the men were living together in the condominium despite reportedly holding student visas without clear evidence of school attendance or legitimate employment.
All six suspects, along with the seized devices and documents, were transferred to Rattanathibet Police Station for further legal proceedings. Thai authorities said the suspects admitted to the initial immigration-related offences during the arrest process.
