Russian Arrested in Phuket for ATM Withdrawals Linked to Call Center Scam
Phuket — Police have arrested a 41‑year‑old Russian national, Mr. Anton, accused of playing a key role in a transnational call center fraud ring. The Phuket Provincial Investigation Division told the Phuket Express that…
A 41-year-old Russian man has been arrested in Phuket for allegedly withdrawing cash from ATMs as part of a transnational call center scam, police said on April 22. Phuket Provincial Investigation Division officers located Mr. Anton at his apartment in Rawai after a warrant was issued by Surat Thani Provincial Court on April 17, 2026. Authorities accuse him of acting as a key operative in a scheme that targeted victims across Thailand.
ATM Withdrawals and Fraud Case Links
Investigators said Mr. Anton made 16 separate ATM withdrawals at a Mini Big C branch in Chalong, with the total amount reaching 331,000 baht. Each withdrawal was linked to a different fraud case, according to police.
Authorities confirmed that the combined damages from these 16 cases amounted to 795,367 baht. Surveillance footage was used to connect the suspect to the transactions.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Mr. Anton faces charges of assisting in computer crimes by inputting false information with intent to cause harm, and illegally using another person’s electronic card to withdraw cash. Police described his role as that of a cash mule, collecting funds after victims were deceived by the scam.
The suspect has been transferred to Kanchanadit Police Station in Surat Thani for further legal proceedings. Investigators are working to identify additional members of the fraud network.
Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/04/22/russian-arrested-in-phuket-for-atm-withdrawals-linked-to-call-center-scam/
