The spokesperson for Immigration Division 3 warned the public and foreigners to beware of scammers impersonating immigration officers. They advised people to ask for official identification and record video clips, and to verify with local government agencies if in doubt.
There have been reports of individuals dressed like police officers impersonating immigration officers entering the residences of Chinese workers in Ban Khai District, Rayong Province. They pressured residents to buy charity cards, threatening to bring immigration officers to inspect if they refused. Some property also went missing after these individuals entered the homes. Police are currently investigating and gathering evidence to take legal action.
On 14 Aug 2016 at 17:00 at Immigration Division 3 headquarters, Police Colonel Prinya Klinkesorn, deputy commander and spokesperson of Immigration Division 3, said that Pol. Maj. Gen. Songprod Sirisukha, commander of Immigration Division 3, ordered the Rayong Provincial Immigration Police to coordinate with Nong Krab Police Station to urgently investigate and take legal action. The group’s impersonation and intimidation caused fear among victims and harmed the agency's reputation.
He urged the public and foreigners that if anyone claiming to be police or immigration officers comes to inspect, they have the right to request to see official identification showing name, position, and agency. They may take photos or videos during the interaction or observe and remember details such as the person, vehicle, or other information for verification. He confirmed that the agency has no policy of soliciting donations or selling charity cards in any form.
Police Colonel Prinya added that foreigners living or working in Thailand who cannot communicate in Thai should contact trusted individuals such as employers, housing supervisors, or local government agencies to verify the facts. They should not agree to pay money to anyone claiming to offer assistance with inspections, arrests, or procedures without official evidence or government processes.
Additionally, the public can request to see official identification and check the officer’s name through an application. “Police Care” using the “Check Fake Police” function to confirm if the individual is a genuine police officer. If there are still doubts, inquiries can be made directly to the officer's agency or local police station.
The spokesperson for Immigration Division 3 added that the Royal Thai Police prioritize preventing and cracking down on individuals impersonating officers to intimidate, deceive, or exploit others. Such acts not only harm the public but also damage trust and the image of police, especially when foreigners are victims. All units cooperate to investigate, track, and prosecute offenders firmly according to the law.
If the public witnesses or has leads about such illegal activities, they can report information to the Immigration Bureau hotline 1178 or to the address: Chalermprakiat Building, No. 904, Moo 6, Ban Mai Subdistrict, Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi 11120.
Telephone: Contact the local Immigration Office or visit the website:www.immigration.go.th