SURAT THANI, Thailand – Thai immigration police have arrested a Swedish man on Koh Samui wanted by authorities in Sweden over an alleged online fraud operation that caused losses exceeding 20 million baht and involved the unlawful acquisition of nine firearms.
The arrest followed an investigation by Immigration Bureau Division 6, Surat Thani immigration police, Trang immigration police and cybercrime investigators. Officers traced the suspect, identified as David, to Koh Samui after receiving information from Swedish authorities about an arrest warrant.
The case concerns an alleged criminal network that targeted individuals, families and businesses in Sweden in early 2026. Investigators said the group contacted victims claiming their bank accounts had suspicious activity and persuaded them to install AnyDesk, software that allows remote access to computers.
Once access was obtained, the suspects allegedly entered personal and corporate bank accounts, applied for loans without authorisation and transferred money out of the accounts. Investigators said the proceeds were used to purchase expensive goods, including Rolex Daytona and Submariner watches, iPhone 17 Pro Max smartphones, MacBook computers and substantial quantities of gold bars. Swedish authorities estimate the losses at more than six million Swedish kronor, equivalent to over 20 million baht.
Investigators also allege that the suspect impersonated a police officer and told victims that their firearms needed to be taken into custody for their own safety. Victims were persuaded to hand over nine guns, some of which were reportedly hidden in public places, including inside unlocked cars and near drainage ditches.
Authorities said the concealment of firearms in such locations posed a potential public safety risk, as the weapons could have been found and used by other people. A review of the suspect’s background reportedly found previous criminal cases in Sweden dating back to 2013, including money laundering, drug-related offences, assault and offences involving firearms and knives. He had previously served a 10-month prison sentence, according to information provided by investigators.
Following the latest alleged fraud and firearms offences, Swedish authorities issued an arrest warrant and revoked the suspect’s passport after he fled the country. Thai officers subsequently coordinated with their Swedish counterparts to locate and arrest him on Koh Samui.
The case highlights the international reach of online fraud operations and the role of cross-border police cooperation in tracking suspects who flee overseas. The allegations remain subject to the legal process.
