A Thai couple is under investigation after allegedly using artificial intelligence (AI) to create fake social media profiles in a romance scam that has now escalated into a murder case in Surat Thani province.
The victim, 61-year-old Wichit Chompong, was found dead with more than 10 gunshot wounds at a roadside plantation in Son Sak district. His mobile phone was also discovered damaged and left at the scene.
His body was later found by his sister, Preeda, 56, after she grew concerned when he left home at night and failed to return. She said her brother was generally cautious at night and had previously been involved in illicit activities before turning to shrimp farming.
Before leaving home, Wichit reportedly told his granddaughter he was going out to deliver fuel to someone, raising further suspicion among family members after his disappearance.
According to Thai media reports, a housemaid identified as Fern and her boyfriend Sunthon are central figures in the case. Fern is said to have introduced Wichit to a woman named “Ploy” via social media, sparking an online relationship.
Investigators believe Wichit transferred money to the woman under the impression of a romantic relationship, despite warnings from relatives that the profile images may have been AI-generated. Reports indicate the funds were instead channelled into Sunthon’s bank account.
Authorities suspect the couple may have created the fake AI-generated persona to deceive Wichit financially. It is also alleged that they arranged a meeting with him before the incident, although police have not confirmed these claims.
Fern has denied any involvement, stating she was at her family home in another district on the day of the incident. However, a witness reportedly told investigators she was seen with Wichit that same day.
Another individual, identified as Dam, also told media he had been similarly approached through a fake profile linked to Fern and had transferred money before suspecting it was a scam.
Police investigations are ongoing, with authorities expected to examine mobile phones and digital records as part of efforts to determine the full extent of the alleged scam network.
