Southern Thai Elderly Women Defrauded by Fake Tour Operator, Funeral Visit Dream Dashed

Two elderly women in Phatthalung Province, Southern Thailand, have filed a complaint with the Muang Phatthalung Police Station alleging they were defrauded by a fake tour operator. Sudjai, 72, and Ariwan, 69, had intended to join a tour to pay respects at the royal crematorium of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. They each paid 1,500 baht, a total of 3,000 baht, to a tour operator in the Kuan Khanun district. However, the operator repeatedly postponed the trip, citing various excuses such as unavailability of slots and personal inconvenience, on 3-4 occasions. When the women finally requested a refund, the operator allegedly refused, offering further excuses and daring them to report the incident to the police. Frustrated, the two women decided to file a formal complaint. Sudjai mentioned that she had heard from friends that this tour operator had previously scammed other customers, but no one had dared to report it. She also questioned whether the operator held the necessary permits. Ariwan expressed her disappointment, stating that while the amount was not substantial, it represented a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for her as a Thai citizen to pay her respects. The incident has left her unable to fulfill this wish. Source: INN News