Dozens of Vietnamese alleged scammers were arrested as police raided their luxury villa in Bangkok.

The 27 suspects reportedly seduced Vietnamese victims by creating fake social media profiles of attractive people.

They were said to have lured individuals into relationships before tricking them into sending money under various pretexts such as medical emergencies or debt payments.

The massive catfishing scheme was uncovered after Thai residents reported a group of 'suspicious' foreigners seen gathering in the upmarket housing estate on the outskirts of Bangkok.

Police raided the property on June 10 and detained 18 men and nine women found working in a makeshift office. They also seized 116 phones, 45 computers, and 0.17 ounces (5 grams) of ketamine.

Police Major General Noppasin Poonsawat, deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, said: 'The group travelled from Hanoi, Vietnam and entered Thailand in October 2024 on tourist visas, which allowed them to stay in the country for only 60 days. Most of them crossed through the Khlong Luek checkpoint in Sa Kaeo before banding together to form the call centre gang.'

The alleged scammers were understood to have targetted Vietnamese individuals through the 'Zalo' messaging app. They made fake profiles featuring attractive photos and posing as wealthy people interested in buying land and starting a business.

After gaining the victims' trust, they would reportedly fabricate stories of financial distress to coax them into wiring money. The scammers received commissions for each successful transfer.

Authorities said the gang had been operating out of Thailand since March, causing 887,000 GBP in financial damages.

Police General Thatchai Pitanilabut, inspector-general of the Royal Thai Police, said: 'We are co-ordinating with forensic police and the Technology Crime Suppression Division to expand the investigation. The suspects and the seized items were taken to the inquiry officer of Lam Phakchi Police Station for further legal action.'

(1 GBP = 43.97 THB)