Indonesian Fugitive in Love Scam Case Sought by US Captured in Thailand

A male Indonesian citizen, identified as the primary suspect in a hybrid fraud network operating through dating apps to entice victims into cross-continental investments, has been arrested in Thailand. The Indonesian was apprehended based on an arrest warrant from US authorities and an Interpol red notice.

According to Thai media outlet Thairath on Sunday (26/4/2026), Thai authorities conducted an arrest operation against Awang Willuang, 33, an Indonesian national, on 25 April 2026.

The arrest followed findings by Thailand’s Immigration Division 3 Investigation Unit that Awang was the main suspect in a cryptocurrency investment fraud case, wanted under a US arrest warrant and Interpol red notice for charges of ‘conspiracy to commit wire fraud’.

Furthermore, Awang was identified as the mastermind of a hybrid scam operation based in the United Arab Emirates. He reportedly entered Thailand on 22 April with a tourist visa and stayed at a luxury resort on Kamala Beach, Phuket.

Authorities coordinated with Phuket Immigration Police to conduct field investigations, ultimately leading to his capture. The investigation revealed that Awang collaborated with the scam network to defraud cryptocurrency investors from 2022 to 2026.

The methods used involved contacting victims through dating apps, social media, and other online channels using attractive male and female models to build romantic relationships—a classic romance scam—before inviting victims to invest in fake platforms showing illusory profits. Many American victims were deceived.

Authorities revoked his permission to stay in Thailand under Section 12 (7) of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979), categorising him as a prohibited alien. He is being detained for deportation and cooperating with US authorities to continue legal actions.