Chinese millionaire fugitive arrested in Pattaya, has fake Thai ID - Bangkok Post

The Chinese suspect, second right, is arrested at his house in Pattaya on Saturday. (photo: Department of Provincial Administration) A Chinese millionaire arrested in Pattaya for illegally acquiring Thai citizenship is also wanted in China for alleged assault three decades ago.

Zhishan Zhu was taken into custody from his house in tambon Nong Prue on Saturday. He is wanted in China on a charge of assault in Taizhou City in Zhejiang province on Jan 19, 1990, according to Provincial Police Region 2 and provincial administrative officials.

The suspect allegedly fled China to Thailand and paid a 50,000-baht bribe to get a Thai ID card in Phop Phra district of Tak.

As a Thai man known as Suchart, he worked as a tour guide and then ran a tour service business. Later he moved to Pattaya, married a Chinese woman and they had twins who have Thai nationality.

Mr Zhishan has been in Thailand for more than three decades. He owns 17 properties worth more than 100 million baht in Chon Buri, has many cars and motorcycles and is associated with many companies, according to police.

His Thai citizenship and house registration have been revoked. His two children will also lose their Thai citizenship. He faces extradition to China.