By Benjamin Richard
Thai police arrested six Nigerian nationals on May 22, 2026, during a raid on a condominium in Nonthaburi, alleging they were involved in an online romance scam operation targeting victims in Thailand.
Authorities said the operation was carried out at three units in a riverside condominium complex near the Chao Phraya River following an investigation linked to an earlier drug related case. Police allege that financial tracing from the previous arrest led them to the location.
The suspects, identified by police as Denis (23), Ejikeme (24), Ibekwe (29), Okorom (26), Nwosu (30), and Obielu (35), were found residing in the apartments on student visas. Authorities said preliminary checks indicated that several of the individuals were not enrolled in educational institutions or engaged in authorized employment.
Police said officers entered the units after the occupants refused to open the doors. One suspect reportedly attempted to flee via a balcony, while another was detained inside the apartment.
Items seized during the raid included mobile phones, laptops, bank documents, and digital materials investigators described as related to online fraud activity. Police said the devices contained ongoing chat conversations with potential victims, as well as images and scripts allegedly used in online interactions.
Authorities allege the group posed as professionals such as pilots and medical workers in order to build trust with victims through social media and messaging platforms before requesting money for fabricated expenses. Investigators said they are examining the extent of the alleged scheme and potential victims involved.
All six suspects face preliminary charges including immigration violations and unlawful association under Thai law. Further charges related to fraud are expected pending the outcome of the investigation.
Thai authorities have not released details on the total number of alleged victims or financial losses.
The case remains under investigation.
