Swedish ‘cyber fraudster’ caught on Samui

SURAT THANI – Thai immigration police have arrested a Swedish national wanted by authorities in his home country after he was found hiding on Koh Samui.

The suspect, identified only as “David”, is accused of being part of a major cyber fraud network that used the remote-access software AnyDesk to steal more than 6 million Swedish kronor (20 million baht) from victims.

Police said the stolen funds were used to purchase luxury items, including Rolex watches, smartphones, computers and gold bars for money laundering purposes. The suspect also faces allegations of impersonating a police officer and fraudulently obtaining firearms.

Authorities said the suspect has a lengthy criminal history involving money laundering, drug offences and assault. He is being held pending extradition proceedings to Sweden in coordination with the Swedish Embassy and Interpol.

The arrest was made through joint efforts by Immigration Division 6, cybercrime investigators, and international law enforcement partners.