Thai YouTuber Natthamon Khongchak, also known as “Nutty,” has been arrested after evading authorities for two years. The 31-year-old influencer, known for her viral K-pop singing and dance covers, built a significant following on her YouTube channel. She gained popularity by performing hits from groups like Blackpink and BTS and even had a brief K-pop debut under the label Dream Cinema.
In 2022, Khongchak launched a forex investment scheme, promising followers returns of up to 35% annually. She used her social media influence to persuade thousands to invest, pledging financial freedom and wealth. However, the promised returns never appeared. When questioned, Khongchak allegedly blamed a trading error for the failure. As dissatisfaction grew, Khongchak and her mother decided to flee. They left Thailand and relocated to Indonesia, attempting to blend in as locals to avoid detection.
Thai authorities responded to complaints by issuing 13 warrants for Khongchak and two for her mother. Despite their efforts to remain unnoticed, immigration officials became suspicious due to their accents. Officials asked Khongchak to sing the Indonesian national anthem and recite the constitution. She failed this test, exposing her foreign status. This led to their arrest in Riau province, Indonesia.
Authorities extradited Khongchak and her mother to Thailand soon after. She now faces serious charges related to defrauding her followers through the investment scam. The case highlights how influencers can misuse their platform and the significant consequences that follow. Victims, who trusted her promises, lost their savings and now hope for justice.
Khongchak’s story reflects how fame can be leveraged for both good and harmful purposes. Initially known for her talent and potential in the K-pop world, her legacy has taken a darker turn. This situation underscores the importance of caution when investing money and recognizing potential scams.
The Thai Cybercrime Investigation Bureau continues to work on this high-profile case. It serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with placing trust in online personalities without proper verification. Khongchak’s arrest brings relief to many victims but also serves as a stark warning about social media influence.
