Bangkok launches investigation into illegal pink card fraud

Bangkok authorities have launched a city-wide investigation into the fraudulent acquisition of ‘pink cards’—identification documents for non-Thai nationals. The probe follows the discovery of a network involving brokers and state officials who allegedly registered foreigners at addresses where they did not reside to facilitate illegal card issuance.

Investigations centered on the Din Daeng public housing area revealed extreme irregularities. In one instance, inspections of three rooms showed over 140 people registered at those addresses, with some single rooms listing more than 60 residents. Many of those involved are reported to be Myanmar nationals. Authorities estimate that more than 1,000 people may be involved in the illegal issuance scheme at the Din Daeng flats.

The alleged fraudulent network operated through four groups: Myanmar brokers collecting documents, Thai brokers securing addresses, household heads providing their addresses for false records, and state officials at the Din Daeng District Office who approved the registrations. Seven suspects have been arrested.

Bangkok officials have ordered all 50 districts to conduct inspections and submit findings by September 1. Authorities are specifically targeting pink cards with identification numbers starting with ‘7’. Violators face criminal charges under the 1991 Resident Registration Act, and complicit civil servants face disciplinary action.