Russian Fugitive Wanted by Interpol Arrested at Luxury Villa in Phuket

A Russian national wanted under an Interpol Red Notice has been arrested in Phuket after Thai immigration authorities tracked him to a luxury villa where he had allegedly been hiding.

The suspect, identified only as Igor, was taken into custody by officers from Immigration Division 6 working alongside Phuket Immigration Police. Investigators had reportedly been monitoring his movements before moving in and arresting him as he left the villa on Saturday morning.

According to information provided by Russian authorities, Igor is accused of being a key member of a criminal network involved in large-scale document forgery and corporate fraud.

Investigators allege that in 2024 the group used falsified procurement and shipping documents to fraudulently obtain more than 80 million baht from various companies. In 2025, the scheme reportedly expanded, with forged production records being used to support transactions involving goods that never existed, resulting in additional losses of around 70 million baht.

Combined damages linked to the alleged fraud are estimated at more than 150 million baht.

Despite reportedly attempting to maintain a low profile while staying at an upscale villa in Phuket, authorities were able to locate the suspect through cooperation between Thai immigration officials and international law enforcement agencies.

Following his arrest, Igor was transferred into custody pending extradition procedures. Thai authorities confirmed that further action will be carried out in accordance with international legal agreements and extradition protocols.

Officials stated that the case highlights Thailand’s ongoing cooperation with foreign law enforcement agencies and its commitment to preventing the country from becoming a refuge for internationally wanted