News

Golden Promises Fail to Measure Up: The Kornkanok and Kanpon Gold Scam Scandal

Published

4 months ago

October 14, 2024

The rise of digital commerce has opened doors for both legitimate businesses and fraudsters alike. Recently, Thailand was rocked by an alleged gold scam involving Kornkanok “Mae Tuck” Suwanbut and her husband, Kanpon “Pa Bia” Rueng-aram. The couple, well-known for selling gold jewelry through live social media streams, is now facing serious legal charges after hundreds of customers reported their purchases as fraudulent.

Golden Promises Fail to Measure Up: Fraud Charges Against Famous Online Sellers

As digital commerce continues to thrive, so do opportunities for scammers. The gold jewelry scam involving Kornkanok and Kanpon serves as a cautionary tale for buyers and sellers alike.

A Scandal Unveiled: The Gold Jewelry Scam

The scandal began when several customers who purchased what was advertised as “99.99% pure gold” jewelry from the couple’s live streams reported issues when attempting to resell the jewelry. Numerous gold shops refused to buy the pieces due to the lack of authentic hallmarking and claims that the products contained no actual gold. This prompted over 300 victims to file complaints with the police, accusing the couple of public fraud.

Customer Complaints and Legal Action

The defrauded customers insisted that Kornkanok and Kanpon misled them through false advertising, convincing buyers that their gold jewelry was genuine. Many provided evidence such as proof of purchase and results of gold content tests that demonstrated the lack of real gold in the products.

Legal Consequences of Public Fraud

According to Pol Maj Gen Witthaya Sriprasertpab, chief of the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD), public fraud is a severe crime that can result in long prison sentences. Each fraudulent transaction could be considered a separate count of fraud under the Criminal Procedure Code, with each count carrying a sentence of up to five years in prison.

Maj Gen Witthaya noted that with the rise of digital commerce, anyone can become a seller, increasing the risk of scams. He urged consumers to be cautious and purchase only from reliable platforms to avoid falling victim to online fraud.

Protection Against Online Fraud

To reduce the risk of purchasing substandard products, buyers should ensure that gold shops are properly registered with organizations like the Gold Traders Association. State agencies are also being called upon to enforce stricter regulations to protect consumers and punish fraudulent sellers.

Potential Legal Violations and Penalties

Kosolwat Inthuchanyong, a senior prosecutor and head of the Office of Rights Protection under the Attorney-General, explained that withholding product details could violate consumer protection laws. Sections 47 and 52 of Thailand’s consumer protection law outline penalties for misleading product information and improper labeling. Offenders could face up to six months in prison or a 100,000 baht fine, with penalties increasing for repeat offenses.

Kosolwat added that if proper details about the jewelry’s gold content had been disclosed, the couple would not be facing such legal consequences. Even though they offered refunds to some customers, this may not be enough to prevent legal repercussions.

Legal Ramifications for Kornkanok and Kanpon

Police are currently investigating the couple’s livestream sessions to determine if they withheld critical information during sales. So far, Kornkanok and Kanpon have been charged with public fraud, inputting false information into computer systems, misleading advertising, and misrepresentation of their products’ quality and content.

In addition to fraud charges, luxury vehicles worth 120 million baht owned by the couple, including a Porsche, Lamborghini, and Ford Mustang, have been seized by the police as part of the ongoing investigation.

Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale in the World of E-commerce

The gold scam scandal involving Kornkanok and Kanpon highlights the risks of online commerce and the importance of transparency and consumer protection. As digital marketplaces continue to grow, so do opportunities for fraudsters to exploit unsuspecting buyers. This case serves as a reminder for consumers to be cautious and for authorities to remain vigilant in regulating online transactions and holding scammers accountable.

News

Government Introduces Universal 1,000 Baht Allowance for Seniors

Published

1 day ago

February 21, 2025

Wadi

Government’s Initiative to Support Senior Citizens

The Thai government has announced a new plan to provide a flat monthly allowance of 1,000 baht to all senior citizens. This initiative aims to enhance the financial security of elderly individuals across the nation.

Details of the Allowance Increase

The new allowance structure will replace the existing tiered system based on age. Previously, seniors received varying amounts depending on their age group. Under the revised plan, all individuals aged 60 and above will receive a uniform allowance of 1,000 baht per month.

Breakdown of Previous Allowances

Before this change, the allowances were as follows:

Aged 60-69: 600 baht
Aged 70-79: 700 baht
Aged 80-89: 800 baht
Aged 90 and older: 1,000 baht

This adjustment reflects the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of its aging population.

In addition to the senior citizen allowance, the government is also adjusting financial support for children and disabled individuals. The allowance for children under six years old will now be set at 600 baht per month, starting from four months into pregnancy. Furthermore, the allowance for disabled individuals will be standardized at 1,000 baht per month.

Goals of the New Welfare Initiatives

These adjustments are part of a broader strategy to strengthen social welfare programs in Thailand. The government aims to provide more equitable support to vulnerable populations while simplifying the application process for these benefits.

Implementation Timeline and Future Plans

While the specifics regarding when these changes will take effect are still unclear, government officials have indicated that they are working on finalizing the implementation details. This initiative is expected to significantly enhance the quality of life for many seniors and other vulnerable groups in Thailand.

The introduction of a flat allowance for seniors represents a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive social safety net in Thailand. As these changes unfold, they are likely to play an essential role in supporting the nation’s elderly population.

News

Karen DKBA to Cease Assistance for Call Centre Gang Victims Due to High Costs

Published

1 day ago

February 21, 2025

Wadi

Introduction to DKBA’s Decision

Overview of the Situation

The Democratic Karen Benevolent Army (DKBA) has announced plans to stop assisting victims of call centre gangs, citing escalating operational costs. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of ongoing human trafficking and exploitation in the region, particularly affecting foreign nationals.

Recent Victim Rescues by DKBA

Significant Rescue Operations

Recently, the DKBA facilitated the rescue of 261 foreign victims from scam operations in Myanmar. These individuals were handed over to Thai authorities for repatriation after enduring severe abuse in various scam centers along the border. Reports indicate that many victims exhibited signs of torture and psychological distress upon their release.

Challenges Faced by Victims

Victims reported being subjected to extreme conditions, including electric shocks and forced labor under dire circumstances. The DKBA’s involvement in these rescues has drawn attention to the broader issue of human trafficking in the region, highlighting the urgent need for continued support and intervention.

Financial Burden Leading to Cessation of Support

Rising Costs of Operations

The DKBA’s leadership has expressed concerns over the financial implications of their rescue efforts. The costs associated with providing care and support for rescued victims have become unsustainable, prompting the organization to reconsider its role in this humanitarian crisis.

Implications for Future Rescue Efforts

As the DKBA prepares to cease its assistance, there are fears that this will leave many victims vulnerable and without necessary support. The cessation could hinder ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and provide aid to those affected by these criminal enterprises.

The Need for Continued Support

Call for International Attention

The situation underscores the critical need for international cooperation and funding to address human trafficking in Myanmar and surrounding areas. Without adequate resources, organizations like the DKBA may struggle to continue their vital work in rescuing and rehabilitating victims of exploitation.

Future Prospects

While the DKBA has made significant strides in recent months, its decision to halt assistance raises concerns about the future of victim support in the region. Stakeholders must act swiftly to ensure that those who have suffered at the hands of call centre gangs receive the help they desperately need.

News

Moroccan Suspect in Doctor’s Murder Captured in Turkey

Published

1 day ago

February 21, 2025

Wadi

Arrest of Moroccan National Linked to Doctor’s Murder

Authorities have apprehended a Moroccan national, Bilal Chefinu, in Turkey, who is wanted for the murder of a doctor in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This arrest comes after a two-month international manhunt initiated by Thai police and Interpol.

Details Surrounding the Murder Investigation

The victim, Thitikarn Dulikanon, also known as Dr. Sammy, was found dead in her clinic on December 6, 2024. Investigators believe the murder occurred two days earlier, on December 4. Surveillance footage revealed that Chefinu entered the clinic with Dr. Sammy and left alone in her car shortly after the incident.

Timeline of Events Leading to the Arrest

December 4, 2024: Dr. Sammy and Chefinu are seen entering the clinic together.
December 5, 2024: Chefinu is captured on CCTV leaving the clinic around 2:00 AM and later boarding a flight to Hong Kong.
December 6, 2024: Dr. Sammy’s body is discovered by a housekeeper.

Following the incident, police secured an arrest warrant for Chefinu and sought Interpol’s assistance to track him down internationally.

Extradition Process Underway

After his arrest at a hotel in Turkey, authorities are now coordinating with Turkish officials to facilitate Chefinu’s extradition back to Thailand. The Chiang Mai police are preparing for his arrival to face charges of intentional homicide.

Motive Behind the Crime

Investigators suspect that jealousy may have been a motive for the murder. It has been reported that Chefinu was Dr. Sammy’s former partner, and they had separated about a year prior to the incident. The case has garnered significant media attention due to its tragic nature and the profile of the victim as a prominent figure in Chiang Mai’s medical community.

This ongoing investigation continues to unfold as authorities work diligently to bring justice for Dr. Sammy and her family.