In a shocking case of extortion, three Indian nationals were rescued by Thai police after being held captive by a group of their compatriots in Samut Prakan province. The incident, which unfolded on April 18, 2025, involved the victims, Amandeep Kajal, 26, Ramesh Sharma, 47, and Vipulkumar Shambhulal Patel, who were reportedly kidnapped for a ransom of 2.5 million Rupees, approximately 900,000 Thai Baht.
The operation to rescue the hostages was led by Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, the Chief of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, along with the Crime Suppression Division. The police managed to apprehend six suspects in connection with the case, including Mr. Sandhu Deep, 31, who was identified as the ringleader, and five others, comprising five Indians and one Pakistani.
The ordeal began on April 5 when the victims arrived in Thailand for a vacation. According to reports, they initially checked into the Nagala Hotel in Sathorn before moving to the Diamond Residence on Silom Road. On April 14, Sharma and Kajal were lured away from their hotel by a man who offered to help them catch a taxi to the airport, supposedly for a flight to Vietnam. Instead, they were taken to a safe house in Soi Sukhumvit 109.
On April 16, Sharma's sister, Harman Kaur, received a WhatsApp message from Sandhu Deep, who claimed to be holding her brother and Kajal captive. He demanded the ransom and threatened harm if the money was not paid. Kaur promptly informed authorities, leading to an investigation by the Crime Suppression Division.
Police traced the suspects to a condominium in Bang Lamung, Chonburi, where they had been hiding. The victims were found bound and beaten, with reports indicating that they had been threatened with mutilation if their families did not comply with the ransom demands.
Virattanan Khlaksai, a taxi driver who had unknowingly transported the victims to their captors, recounted the events. He noted that the three Indian men had appeared calm and friendly during the ride, giving no indication of any coercion. Upon arriving at their destination, they simply walked into the house without any signs of being forced.
Following the rescue, the police charged the suspects with multiple offenses, including kidnapping, extortion, and robbery. All six suspects were presented to the Bangkok South Criminal Court, where the prosecution opposed bail, citing concerns that they might flee due to their lack of a permanent address in Thailand.
In a subsequent statement, Police Colonel Wasan Techaakaraksa elaborated on the crime's nature, revealing that the suspects had posed as job recruiters, promising employment opportunities in Australia. They exploited the victims' trust, knowing they were unfamiliar with the area and desperate for work.
While the investigation continues, authorities are working closely with the Indian Embassy to gather more information on the suspects and their backgrounds. Police are also looking into whether any Thai nationals were involved in facilitating the crime.
This alarming incident highlights the vulnerabilities faced by foreign nationals in Thailand, particularly those seeking work. As the investigation unfolds, the police have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of all visitors and residents in the country.
The victims are currently receiving support and assistance as they recover from their traumatic experience. Their case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by criminal elements who prey on the unsuspecting.
