Thai authorities have arrested a Chinese national suspected of orchestrating a cryptocurrency investment scam that allegedly caused losses of around four billion baht, in one of the country’s largest recent digital asset fraud cases.

Police said the suspect was detained in Thailand following an investigation into an online scheme that promised high returns from crypto trading and related digital investments.

Victims were reportedly persuaded to transfer funds through online platforms and messaging applications, with assurances of rapid profits that failed to materialise.

Investigators allege that the operation attracted substantial sums from both Thai and foreign investors before funds were diverted through a complex web of accounts.

Financial crime units have been working to trace the movement of money across jurisdictions, coordinating with international counterparts to identify additional suspects and recover assets.

Authorities said the arrest followed months of intelligence gathering and digital forensic analysis.

Officials emphasised that the case underscores Thailand’s commitment to cracking down on cyber-enabled financial crime and protecting investors as digital asset markets continue to expand.

Preliminary findings suggest the scheme used persuasive marketing materials and fabricated trading data to build credibility.

Law enforcement agencies have urged the public to exercise caution when approached with promises of guaranteed returns in cryptocurrency ventures, noting that such claims are often hallmarks of fraudulent activity.

The suspect is expected to face charges under Thai law related to public fraud, computer crime and money laundering, pending further investigation.

Police said additional arrests remain possible as the inquiry continues.

The case comes amid heightened scrutiny of online investment platforms across Southeast Asia, where rapid adoption of digital assets has created new opportunities but also increased exposure to sophisticated scams.