According to reports, Benjamin Mauerberger is wanted in Thailand on charges of cross-border investment fraud and money laundering.
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A South African businessman from Cape Town, Benjamin Mauerberger, who is also known as Ben Smith, has been accused by Thai authorities of playing a central role in a large international fraud and money-laundering operation linked to scam networks in Southeast Asia.
According to reports, Mauerberger is wanted in Thailand on charges of cross-border investment fraud and money laundering.
It also alleged that he convinced a foreign investor to transfer more than $30 million into what were presented as legitimate business opportunities, including investments in stocks, real estate and energy projects.
But Mauerberger’s alleged activities go far beyond Thailand. He is reported to have allegedly run large scam centres in Cambodia, where hundreds of people were forced to work on fraudulent online investment schemes and cryptocurrency scams.
These operations targeted victims across the United States, Europe, and Asia, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in stolen funds.
It was reported that a Thai court issued arrest warrants for Mauerberger and his wife, Cattaliya Beevor, on charges of investment fraud and money laundering.
The Thai Central Investigation Bureau said the alleged fraud dates back to 2016, with Mauerberger reportedly presenting himself as an investment expert promising high returns.
Authorities have already moved to seize assets linked to him and his associates, totalling over $410 million.
Mauerberger is also reported to have allegedly used his financial influence to gain access to political and business networks in Thailand. Investigations suggest he made donations to political parties and built connections with prominent figures, which may have helped him operate his schemes with limited scrutiny.
IOL Business