Buriram, Thailand – A team of volunteer lawyers, led by the Lawyers Council under Royal Patronage, is assisting over 250 Thai workers who were deceived into paying for non-existent jobs in Australia, resulting in financial losses exceeding 20 million baht. Victims have voiced concerns that those responsible may evade justice due to political connections.
On January 26, 2025, legal representatives from the Lawyers Council Region 3 and the Lawyers Council of Buriram Province met with affected individuals at the Hai Sok Subdistrict Administrative Organization in Phutthaisong District. Their goal was to document evidence and prepare a legal case against the perpetrators. Many victims had paid between 60,000 and 120,000 baht each, believing they would secure well-paying jobs abroad, only to be abandoned at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
According to victims, the fraud was orchestrated by a woman identified as Ms. Oi, who falsely claimed to be affiliated with the Australian Embassy. Reports indicate that her family was also involved in the scheme. Some victims, fearing the case might be dismissed, submitted photographic and audio evidence linking Ms. Oi’s parents and grandparents to the scam.
The Lawyers Council has pledged full legal support, including seeking joint plaintiff status to ensure victims receive compensation. As part of their outreach, legal representatives also conducted public awareness sessions to educate residents about fraud prevention and legal rights.
Among the victims is Wisanu Naothaisong, a former factory worker from Samut Prakan. After losing his right arm in an accident, he saw the promised Australian job as a life-changing opportunity. Encouraged by Ms. Oi, whom he had known since childhood, he resigned from his job of 13 years, expecting a monthly salary of over 100,000 baht. Instead, he and his family lost a total of 320,000 baht to the scam. Like others, he now faces unemployment and financial hardship.
Legal officials have emphasized their commitment to ensuring justice for those affected. The case is particularly sensitive as some of the accused individuals, including a former three-term president of the Subdistrict Administrative Organization, are believed to have significant political influence.
In attendance at the meeting were Dr. Wichian Chubthaisong, President of the Lawyers Council; Mr. Wirasak Boonpleng, Executive Board Member of the Lawyers Council Region 3; and Mr. Wuttikan Kulsuwan, President of the Lawyers Council of Buriram Province, along with other legal representatives and volunteer lawyers.
