Two Cambodian Drops Arrested in Thailand with $32K Cash from Unknown Operator

Police detained two Cambodian nationals at an ATM in Sa Kaeo Province while they were withdrawing large sums using multiple cards linked to illegal gambling operations.

Details of the Arrest in Sa Kaeo

The incident occurred on June 8 in the Aranyaprathet district of Sa Kaeo Province. Officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) apprehended two Cambodian nationals on the spot — right as they were withdrawing large amounts of cash from an ATM using multiple bank cards.

Suspicious Behavior

The men were performing repeated transactions, each taking considerable time. Their actions appeared suspicious and attracted the attention of undercover agents who had been monitoring the area after receiving intelligence reports.

What Police Seized

As a result of the search, the following items were seized:

• 18 bank cards under various names
• Cash: 1,059,000 Thai baht (approximately $32,400)
• 2 mobile phones
• 2 bags used for transporting funds

Investigation Findings

According to the police, the scheme worked as follows: Cambodian nationals were hired to travel to Thailand to withdraw funds obtained from illegal gambling using cards registered under other people’s names.

These operations were often carried out in border areas to simplify the transfer of cash across borders without oversight.

Monthly Turnover

The drops were handling millions of baht in turnover monthly. Intelligence suggests a possible link to transnational criminal networks, including fraudulent call centers.

Charges

Both detainees are charged with “illegally using another person’s electronic card in a manner that may cause harm to others or to society.”

Conclusion

Authorities continue to investigate to identify all connections and the organizers behind the scheme. Thai police have stepped up financial transaction monitoring, especially in border areas.