Thai authorities have arrested a woman linked to the high-profile “Dr. Boon” case, in which more than 600 victims were defrauded through illegal lending and investment scams.
Dr. Boon Vanasin, an 86-year-old former chairman of Thonburi Healthcare Group, is accused of orchestrating a fraudulent investment scheme involving fictitious hospital projects, resulting in estimated damages exceeding $440 million.
He allegedly persuaded individuals to invest in non-existent medical ventures, such as a cancer center and a wellness facility. Dr. Boon fled Thailand last year, and authorities are continuing efforts to locate him.
The arrested woman, identified as Thitiporn Chalermrattanapratheep, 39, is believed to have acted as a broker for Dr. Boon, soliciting investments from the public with promises of high returns. Victims were left empty-handed when loans were not repaid.
Thitiporn was apprehended Monday at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Samut Prakan Province after being deported from China in response to an Interpol Red Notice.
According to officials, Thitiporn claimed during questioning that she did not know Boon personally and acted only as an agent on behalf of a friend, receiving a 13.5% commission on the funds she raised. Authorities, however, say financial records show she maintained direct ties to Boon and played a key role in recruiting investors.
She is the 14th suspect arrested in connection with the case.
