Russian Arrested in Thailand Over Romance-Investment Scam Linked to Fake Trading Platform

Thai cybercrime authorities have arrested a Russian national accused of running a romance-based investment scam that targeted local victims through social media and a fabricated online trading platform. The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Gabriel Chilashvili, was detained at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport while re-entering the country, following an investigation that began in 2023.

The case originated from a complaint by a businessman in Nakhon Sawan who reported losing more than ฿60,000 after being drawn into what appeared to be a legitimate online trading opportunity. According to investigators, the victim first encountered a woman on social media and developed a personal relationship over time. Once trust was established, the conversation shifted toward investment opportunities, specifically gold trading via a platform branded as “ATFX.”

Police later determined that the platform was not connected to any legitimate broker. Instead, it was allegedly controlled by the scam network and designed to display false profits to encourage repeated deposits. Small initial withdrawals were allowed, a tactic commonly used to reinforce credibility, before access to funds was abruptly cut off.

Financial tracing revealed that victim funds were routed through a web of proxy bank accounts. Ten accounts were identified, including accounts held in Thailand and Russia. Investigators said Thai accomplices were used to withdraw cash locally, which was then converted into digital assets and transferred onward, complicating recovery efforts. Nearly ฿2 million linked to the network has been seized so far.

Authorities believe Chilashvili played a central coordinating role, overseeing money movement and platform operations while remaining behind online identities. Arrest warrants have been issued for multiple suspects, with several already in custody.

The investigation remains active, with cyber police continuing to trace additional victims, financial flows, and international links tied to the operation.