17 Russians Arrested in Thailand Over Land Ownership Scheme

19 Russians were detained in Thailand for illegal ownership of real estate in the resort zones of the kingdom.

Consensus

Thai authorities issued arrest warrants for 62 foreign nationals, including 17 Russians, in connection with a network of foreign shell companies on Samui Island.
The operation targeted illegal land ownership schemes using Thai citizens as nominal owners to circumvent laws restricting foreign land ownership.
The investigation involved 61 companies linked to 42 land parcels and buildings valued at approximately 1.5 billion baht (about $46 million).
Foreigners are legally prohibited from directly owning land in Thailand, except through large investments approved by the Board of Investment.
The operation included raids on offices and properties associated with five corporate groups.
In addition to Russians, arrest warrants were issued for citizens of Israel, France, Germany, Ukraine, the US, UK, Italy, Estonia, Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Bulgaria, and the Philippines.
A total of 88 individuals were involved in 60 criminal cases, with 26 being Thai nationals.
The operation was part of a broader investigation into real estate fraud in resort areas.
The use of Thai nationals as nominal shareholders to bypass land ownership laws is a criminal offense punishable by prison, fines, and confiscation of property.

14 suspects have already been detained, including citizens from China, the UK, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Austria, the Philippines, and the US. — fontanka
12 of the 17 Russians were arrested by court order. — vesti
Three Russians were detained on Phuket, and four were arrested in Chonburi province, including in the 'Russian village' area known as Ban Dusit Pattaya Lake. — vesti
The demand for Russian real estate in Thailand increased by 46.4% year-on-year in the first half of the year. — vesti
19 Russians were detained in total, based on data from Thai police. — tg_tass_agency