Thai police have arrested six Nigerian men in Nonthaburi province over allegations of running an online romance scam using AI-generated images and deepfake video calls.
The arrests took place on 22 May during raids on three units near Bangkok, according to reports.
Police said the men, aged 23 to 35, are accused of posing as Western pilots, soldiers, doctors and engineers to build fake relationships with older Thai women online.
Investigators allege the suspects used manipulative scripts to exploit emotions before requesting money for phony "customs fees."
The operation is also linked to a cocaine bust in April, according to police.
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Authorities added that the men entered Thailand on student visas but had overstayed and were not enrolled in any institution or employed.
They face initial charges of illegal association and visa violations, while fraud investigations continue.
The case has drawn comment from former Nigerian Senator Shehu Sani, who said the alleged actions had damaged Nigeria’s image abroad.
"The Nigerians in Thailand involved in facilitating Romance Scams using AI generated images have only succeeded in further damaging the image of the country and destroying the reputation of innocent citizens in diaspora, and those intending to work, study or live abroad. Their arrest by the Thai authorities is commendable," he said.
Police say inquiries are ongoing and further charges may follow.
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