Kazakh man wanted over alleged fraud arrested in Patong

A 24-year-old Kazakh national wanted under an Interpol Red Notice has been arrested in Patong over alleged fraud and money laundering, Phuket Immigration said.

The man, identified by authorities only as Sergey, was arrested at a dormitory on 3 November 2026 following a request from the Embassy of Kazakhstan and Interpol. Kazakhstan authorities allege that he and associates forged documents to establish more than 20 shell companies, which were used to launder money through nominee arrangements and make cash withdrawals to evade taxes.

The alleged activities caused losses of 560,833,701 tenge, approximately B41.7 million, to the Kazakhstani state, according to the authorities.

Immigration officers located Sergey after investigating the request. A dormitory caretaker took officers to his room, where the man reportedly tried to hide after appearing startled when the door was opened. His identity was confirmed through the Immigration Bureau’s information system.

Checks showed that Sergey entered Thailand on 4 March 2026 and was permitted to stay until 2 May. Immigration said there was no record of an extension application or departure from Thailand, and that he had overstayed by more than 185 days.

Immigration Division 6 spokesperson Police Col Charoenpong Khantilo said Sergey admitted to being the subject of an Interpol Red Notice. He was charged with remaining in Thailand beyond his permitted period of stay and handed over to investigators for further legal proceedings.

The arrest was carried out by Phuket Immigration officers in coordination with Investigation Division 3 of Provincial Police Region 8. Immigration Division 6 said investigations into foreign nationals wanted on international warrants or found to have overstayed their visas were continuing.