Thai police detain 14 for alleged scams targeting Japanese

Police in Thailand have detained 14 people allegedly involved in call-center scams targeting people in Japan.

The police raided on Wednesday a luxury mansion in Bangkok believed to be used by a call-center gang. The 14 suspects include four Japanese and four Chinese nationals.

Police seized fake Japanese police uniforms and identity cards. They also found Japanese-language scripts believed to be used for scams. Police say the gang impersonated Japanese police officers. The suspects allegedly told victims that parcels containing illegal goods were sent in their names. They accused the victims of being involved in suspicious transactions and told them to transfer money for inspection.

The police say the mansion had been rented for about 27,000 dollars a month. The case came to light after local residents told police large numbers of foreigners were suspiciously entering and exiting the mansion.

The police believe there are other members involved. They are cooperating with Japanese authorities in their investigation.