Bangkok: A married couple, known by their aliases "Chang Nut" and "So Oh," has been taken into custody by the Central Investigation Bureau for operating a fraudulent house construction business through Facebook. The couple is accused of defrauding numerous victims by abandoning home construction projects after receiving payments and then threatening legal action against those who attempted to expose their scam.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattanant, or "Chang Nat," and Ms. Thitapa, or "So O," were apprehended at the Talat Organization in Soi Suan Phak, Taling Chan District, Bangkok. Their arrest followed multiple complaints filed by victims with the Crime Suppression Division, who alleged that the couple had deceived them over construction and renovation contracts. The couple's strategy involved creating appealing online profiles to lure clients with seemingly affordable offers.
The operation involved "Nutt the contractor" managing several Facebook pages, displaying images of completed house projects falsely claimed as his own. He portrayed himself as offering competitive prices and having considerable experience, convincing the public of the legitimacy of his services. Accomplices aided in promoting these deceptive services.
Victims were initially drawn in to discuss project details and pricing. Then, "Sister O" would employ persuasive tactics, emphasizing her husband's skills and showing staged construction images to hasten contract signings. After securing the initial payment or funds for construction materials, the suspects would simulate work commencement. They employed a few workers to perform minimal tasks, such as demolishing or placing small piles, to simulate progress, which was a ploy to extract further payments. Subsequently, they would abandon the project, sever contact, and offer various excuses for delays, such as family bereavements.
In a bid to silence victims, the couple resorted to filing Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP) when defrauded clients posted warnings on Facebook groups. They pursued defamation charges to exploit legal loopholes, intending to delay any prosecution. Initially, the couple denied all allegations.
The Crime Suppression Division has issued a warning to the public considering construction or renovation services. They urge caution against being misled by enticing profiles or unrealistically low prices. It is advised to verify a contractor's project history, confirm their business location, and ensure that installment payments align with actual work progress to avoid falling prey to deceitful contractors.