Arrest of Pedro M. in Bangkok
In a significant law enforcement operation, a 39-year-old man from Portugal, named Pedro M., has been arrested in Bangkok, Thailand, on allegations of masterminding an extensive fraud scheme involving cryptocurrency and credit cards, with estimated losses reaching $580 million (€500 million). The arrest was first reported by the Thai news outlet Khaosod, following a tip-off from a Portuguese journalist who recognized him while shopping at an upscale mall in the city.
Details of the Fraud Scheme
Pedro M., whose full surname is believed to be Mourato, has been a figure of interest in Portuguese media due to his alleged criminal activities. After being identified by Thai authorities through facial recognition technology and biometric data, investigators quickly mobilized to locate him within the shopping venue. He was reportedly apprehended while appearing anxious and engaged in a phone call.
Authorities have revealed that the suspect has been residing in Thailand since early 2023, managing to elude law enforcement despite an existing arrest warrant linked to his fraudulent activities. His living situation has been complicated by his illegal status in the country, as he had not renewed his visa or registered his residence properly. While in Bangkok, Pedro M. is accused of continuing his fraudulent operations, scamming local investors out of over 1 million baht ($30,800).
Global Connections and Trends
Pedro Mourato is said to have connections to various fraud operations around the world, with allegations spanning across Europe, the Philippines, and Thailand, as reported by Khaosod, which cited Interpol intelligence.
This incident emphasizes a growing trend in Thailand, where local authorities have heightened efforts to capture individuals involved in cryptocurrency scams. Over the past year, several high-profile arrests have occurred, including:
- A Vietnamese woman in May who was implicated in a scheme targeting over 2,600 victims and causing losses of approximately $300 million.
- A South Korean man detained at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport for alleged money laundering activities linked to international fraud networks involving cryptocurrency and gold trafficking.
- The extradition of a suspect connected to a fraud operation that involved K-pop star Jungkook of BTS, showcasing the scope and seriousness of the authorities’ crackdown on financial crimes in the region.
