A Finnish man wanted through an Interpol Red Notice has been arrested in Bangkok after Thai immigration police disguised themselves as gardeners to lure him out of hiding, Bangkok Post reports.
The 69-year-old man was arrested on 30 June at a housing estate in Bangkok’s Lat Krabang district, near Suvarnabhumi Airport.
According to Thailand’s Immigration Bureau, the man was wanted in Finland on allegations including fraud, tax evasion and falsifying accounting records. Authorities said the alleged offences involved losses equivalent to more than THB 4 million.
Investigators said the man had taken extensive measures to avoid detection after moving from Chon Buri to Bangkok. He reportedly stayed inside the house, blocked the windows with cardboard boxes and other objects, kept the doors closed, and relied on food deliveries. Officers said he rarely left the property.
Police eventually learned that the suspect would come outside whenever nearby trees were being trimmed to warn workers about overhead power cables.
Using that information, an immigration officer posed as a gardener carrying out routine maintenance outside the property. As expected, the Finnish man emerged to give his usual warning, allowing officers to identify themselves and make the arrest.
Following the arrest, Thai immigration authorities revoked his permission to remain in the country under Section 36 of the Immigration Act. Extradition proceedings to return him to Finland are now underway.
Thailand’s Immigration Bureau said it continues to cooperate closely with international law enforcement agencies in locating fugitives wanted through Interpol, adding that the country will not serve as a refuge for international suspects.
