Singaporean ‘Forex-3D’ scam mastermind arrested on Phuket: police | Coconuts

*A Singaporean man suspected of orchestrating a massive and audacious Ponzi scheme is in police custody on Phuket today, according to Thai police. Daryl Cai Yonghui was arrested Monday morning at Phuket International Airport, according to Maj. ...*

Published: 2026-03-14 17:57 UTC Event date: developing

A Singaporean man accused of masterminding the notorious Forex-3D Ponzi scheme was arrested at Phuket International Airport on Monday morning, Thai police confirmed. The suspect, Daryl Cai Yonghui, 32, had been wanted for his alleged role in defrauding thousands of investors out of more than THB20 billion (US$608 million).

Yonghui’s arrest was announced by Maj. Yutthana Praedam of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), who said the suspect was apprehended upon arrival in Phuket. The arrest comes two months after a warrant was issued for Yonghui on charges of fraud and violating the Computer Crime Act, stemming from his suspected position as a key architect of the Forex-3D investment scam.

The Forex-3D scheme operated as a brokerage company, luring investors with promises of returns as high as 80 percent on minimum deposits of THB50,000 (about US$2,000). The operation drew in thousands of victims, many of whom were convinced to invest by high-profile celebrities who promoted the business. Over 9,000 complaints have been filed by Thai citizens, and a dedicated Facebook group for victims now counts more than 220,000 followers.

Yonghui had previously evaded capture on Saturday when DSI agents attempted to arrest him at his condominium in Bangkok. He was not present at the time. Authorities believe Yonghui fled to Singapore in October last year, despite being scheduled to meet with DSI officials. His recent return to Thailand went undetected until his arrest in Phuket, prompting criticism from the public over the perceived delay in law enforcement action.

The Forex-3D investigation has implicated several well-known figures, including actress Savika “Pinky” Chaidej and DJ Pattanapon “DJ Man” Kunjara, who allegedly lent their celebrity status to the scheme’s promotion. Meanwhile, the DSI continues to search for another suspect, Hungarian national Eddy Polgari, a close associate of Yonghui and Apirak Kothi, the founder of Forex-3D. Kothi was arrested one year ago and has been charged with fraud.

Yonghui’s arrest on Phuket brings renewed attention to the island’s role as both a destination for international travelers and, at times, a refuge for those evading authorities. Local residents and tourists have been urged by officials to remain vigilant against investment scams, which have affected communities across Thailand.

Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and further arrests may follow. The DSI has assured the public that efforts to recover assets and pursue justice for victims will continue. Updates on the legal proceedings against Yonghui and any further developments in the Forex-3D case are expected in the coming weeks.

Source: https://coconuts.co/bangkok/news/singaporean-forex-3d-scam-mastermind-arrested-on-phuket-police/