Thai authorities have apprehended a 71-year-old Singaporean businessman at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in connection with an alleged corporate tax evasion scheme worth more than 5 million baht (approximately S$197,550), according to an official police statement released Wednesday.

The suspect, identified as David Liu, was taken into custody on June 3 as he attempted to depart Thailand through the airport's immigration checkpoint. The arrest follows a detailed investigation initiated by Thailand's Revenue Department into the financial activities of Isentia Monitoring Services, where Liu served as an authorized director during mid-2015.

"Our investigation uncovered suspicious financial reporting from the company during Liu's tenure," explained a spokesperson from Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau. "Despite clear evidence of business operations generating revenue, corporate records showed zero sales transactions, no purchase records, and complete absence of tax liabilities - clear signs of fraudulent accounting practices."

Forensic accountants examining the case discovered discrepancies exceeding 5.24 million baht in unpaid value-added taxes owed to the Thai government between July and October 2015. Authorities had previously issued multiple summonses for company directors to address these irregularities, but received no cooperation from management.

The Phra Khanong Criminal Court subsequently approved an arrest warrant after determining sufficient evidence existed to pursue legal action against Liu for his alleged role in the suspected tax avoidance scheme.

During initial questioning at Suvarnabhumi Airport's detention facility, Liu maintained his innocence regarding all charges while confirming his former directorship position with Isentia Monitoring Services. If convicted under Thailand's stringent tax laws, the Singaporean national could face severe penalties including maximum fines approaching 200,000 baht combined with potential imprisonment for up to seven years.

The case highlights ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to combat financial crimes involving foreign business operators. Immigration officials have been instructed to remain vigilant for other individuals potentially connected to this investigation who might attempt international travel.

jengjee.hoon@asiaone.com