Thailand, Taiwan join forces to bust transnational call scam gang

Bangkok, 20 August 2026 - Thailand and Taiwan have joined forces to crack down on a transnational call center scam network allegedly orchestrated by a Taiwanese mafia group. Over 20 Taiwanese suspects were arrested in Cambodia, and the operation resulted in losses exceeding 200 million New Taiwan dollars, equivalent to several hundred million baht.

Led by the Anti-Online Scam Center (ACSC) and the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), the collaboration also involved Taiwan’s Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB Taiwan). The case started after CIB Taiwan investigated a Taiwanese call center network operating from Cambodia, where the group allegedly posed as police officers to deceive victims.

At least 46 victims have been identified, with losses amounting to more than 200 million New Taiwan dollars. The network recruited Taiwanese nationals through online job advertisements, promising well-paid Chinese-language typing jobs with accommodation and meals. More than 100 Taiwanese nationals were lured to Cambodia to work as call center operators.

The gang also allegedly colluded with Thai travel companies to disguise members' travel arrangements and evade authorities. Thai authorities and CIB Taiwan coordinated intelligence and tracked down 20 suspects, including financial backers, operational leaders, and a Thai travel company owner who facilitated travel for the call center gang members.

Evidence, including cash, digital assets, bank accounts, ATM cards, electronic devices, and vehicles, was seized and will be used in legal proceedings for public fraud and money laundering. Thai police vowed to continue investigating and expanding the case against anyone in Thailand involved in the criminal network.