Post by : Shakul

Thailand’s Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) has intensified its investigation into a major house construction fraud case after contractor Kriengkrai Rawai Klang, widely known as “Chang Nueng,” failed to appear for official questioning. The case has attracted national attention after dozens of victims accused the contractor of breaching agreements and causing major financial losses linked to housing projects.

Ms. Suphamas Isarabhakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office and supervisor of the OCPB, confirmed that the accused did not attend the scheduled questioning session held on May 12, despite being legally summoned by authorities. Around 40 victims arrived to provide statements at the OCPB office, but mediation efforts could not proceed due to the contractor’s absence. Officials have now issued a second summons and warned that continued failure to appear could result in criminal penalties.

Authorities stated that under Thai law, ignoring an official summons may lead to imprisonment of up to one month, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both. The government has instructed investigators to strictly follow legal procedures while compiling evidence for both civil and criminal proceedings. Officials are also coordinating with the Crime Suppression Division and the Consumer Protection Police Division to support victims and strengthen the investigation.

The OCPB has additionally requested financial transaction records from banks to trace the movement of funds connected to the case. Investigators expect this process to take approximately 15 days. Authorities are also examining possible contract violations and misleading advertisements connected to the business operations. Penalties for breach of contract may include imprisonment for up to one year and fines reaching 200,000 baht, while advertising violations may result in six months of imprisonment and fines up to 100,000 baht.

Ms. Suphamas said the government aims to complete the legal process against the accused within two months. At the same time, the investigation is being expanded into another construction-related case involving Modern Tage Co., Ltd. In that case, approximately 90 complaints have already been forwarded to the Consumer Protection Police Division for criminal investigation. Authorities revealed that the company has reportedly begun procedures to dissolve its business registration, prompting investigators to gather additional evidence before further legal action is taken.

The Thai government emphasized that consumer protection, especially in the housing sector, remains a national priority because housing is considered a basic necessity for citizens. Officials warned the public to carefully verify contractors, companies, and online advertisements before signing agreements or making large advance payments. Authorities also urged consumers to avoid transferring money beyond the actual scope of project work without proper safeguards.

The Office of the Consumer Protection Board has announced that it will continue monitoring other contractors and businesses showing similar patterns of behavior across social media and online platforms. Citizens affected by construction fraud or service disputes can submit complaints through the OCPB hotline 1166, the OCPB Connect mobile application, the official website, or local Damrongtham Centers located in provincial halls across Thailand.

#world news #Global News #Thailand News