Phuket –
In a dramatic international operation, Thai authorities have arrested a 35-year-old world-renowned hacker who had been hiding out in Phuket after years of cyberattacks targeting government agencies across Europe and the United States.
The arrest was made following a tip-off from the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which alerted Thailand’s Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) to the suspect’s presence in the country. According to Police Lieutenant General Surapol Prembutr, Commissioner of the CCIB, the hacker had previously infiltrated high-security systems and launched cyberattacks on multiple state institutions, earning notoriety among global law enforcement agencies.
The suspect entered Thailand on October 30th, 2025, via Phuket International Airport and was traced to a hotel in Thalang District. In response, Thai police coordinated with the Immigration Bureau, Tourist Police Division, Forensic Police Office, the Office of the Attorney General, and local units to investigate and prepare for the arrest.
Authorities obtained a warrant under Thailand’s Extradition Act of 2008, citing the suspect as a foreign national wanted for extradition. A joint task force, including immigration officers and local police, raided the hotel room and apprehended the individual. Several electronic devices were seized for forensic analysis.
FBI agents were present during the operation as observers, showing the international significance of the case. The suspect is now in custody and has been transferred to the Office of the Attorney General, where formal extradition proceedings are underway.
The name and nationality of the hacker were withheld, however, as the investigation continues.
