Thailand reaffirms visitor safety. Photo: Shutterstock The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has today, June 5, 20206, praised the rapid response of the Royal Thai Police, working alongside the Hong Kong Police Force, after officers safely located a 21-year-old Chinese student targeted in a cross-border virtual kidnapping scam linked to Thailand.
Photo: TATAt a press briefing on June 3, 2026, Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, Deputy Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police and Director of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Center, said the case demonstrated strong international coordination in responding to digital fraud and coercion cases affecting foreign nationals.
"The case reinforces Thailand’s readiness to assist foreign visitors in distress and work with international partners to safeguard travelers," said TAT.
Photo: TATAuthorities said the scam began before the student traveled to Thailand, when fraudsters manipulated her into requesting funds from her father under the pretext of providing financial proof for overseas studies. Between May 19 and May 20, 2026, around HK$1.4 million ($180,000) was transferred and later moved through multiple suspected mule accounts.
The student later traveled alone from Hong Kong to Bangkok on June 1, staying in Lat Krabang. Shortly after, her family received messages on WeChat claiming she had been kidnapped, along with staged images and a ransom demand of HK$3 million ($380,000).
Following a report to Hong Kong police, Thai authorities launched an urgent investigation, reviewing travel records, CCTV footage, and hotel data before locating the student in Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan, where she was found safe and assisted.
Investigators believe she had been psychologically manipulated by scammers posing as law enforcement officials, instructing her to cut contact with her family and simulate her own abduction.
Officials warned travelers to be cautious of unsolicited messages demanding secrecy, isolation, or payments, urging victims to verify information directly with authorities.
"TAT continues to work with relevant Thai agencies to provide visitor-facing information and support, while reaffirming that travelers in Thailand can seek assistance through official channels. Anyone with information or in need of urgent assistance related to trafficking, coercion, or similar scams may contact the Royal Thai Police Anti-Trafficking in Persons Center hotline at 1599, available 24 hours," TAT added.
Last month, the Thai authorities announced they would restore country-specific visa rules after ending their expanded 60-day visa-free program for travelers from over 90 nations.