A 57 year old hill tribe woman, unable to read, claims she was tricked into signing a bank loan document, resulting in a debt of nearly 300,000 baht. The newly appointed district chief of Samoeng, Siripong Nampha, is investigating the matter to ensure justice for all parties involved.
Yesterday, January 15, Siripong Nampha, along with several local officials, visited the home of the victim, Chandi, and her 64 year old husband, Jorpo, in Mueang subdistrict, Bo Kaew district, Chiang Mai province. Chandi, who is suffering from cancer, and her husband are both illiterate.
She claims she was misled into signing a loan document in 2009, which has now accrued to nearly 300,000 baht (US$8,680). The officials are coordinating with Dee (a pseudonym), the head of the loan group, and a bank representative to gather more details.
Chandi confirmed that she signed a loan document for 5,000 baht (US$145) but never received any money. She also stated that she never withdrew 150,000 baht (US$4,342), contradicting the bank’s notification of her debt.
Dee, the loan group leader, explained that he oversees several groups, including Chandi’s, which consists of five members. In 2009, each member applied for a 150,000 baht loan from the bank on a mutual guarantee basis.
Members were asked to sign documents both in the bank and off-site to facilitate the loan approval. Once approved, the loan amount was automatically transferred to each member’s bank account.
Loan scam
Dee insisted that all members signed the necessary guarantee documents but was unaware of the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of Chandi’s money.
A bank representative clarified that opening a bank account requires the account holder to be present to sign the necessary documents. They also highlighted that during any withdrawal, the account holder’s signature and ID card must be verified.
The representative indicated that to investigate the 150,000 baht loan, they would need to examine the loan agreement to determine who filed the application and who guaranteed it. However, the bank was unable to provide document verification without a request from the account holder or an official request from the Dhamrongtham Centre due to privacy laws.
Siripong Nampha, who took office two days ago, expressed his commitment to addressing the complaints promptly. He mentioned that initial inquiries provided some details but crucial documents like the loan contract and withdrawal records are still missing.
Siripong assured that the investigation is straightforward because banking procedures require documented agreements and guarantees. He instructed the district official to invite the bank manager, loan group members, and local leaders to discuss potential solutions at the district’s Dhamrongtham Centre.
Siripong also requested the bank manager supply all relevant financial transaction documents for Chandi and Jorpo’s case to verify the facts and ensure fairness for all involved.
Worapong Meesapkwang, a subcommittee member of the Lawyers Council’s public relations, stated that earlier, bank officials had attempted to persuade Chandi to accept the debt, which her family opposed. This led to a lack of trust, resulting in Chandi’s refusal to meet with the bank officials. Consequently, Siripong had to intervene personally.
Chandi confirmed signing a loan document for 5,000 baht in 2009 but reiterated that she received no funds. She has consistently denied borrowing or using the 150,000 baht.
Upon reviewing Chandi’s bank documents, it was found that her signature was absent on her initial bank book, which aligns with her claim that she received the account after the 150,000 baht was deposited and withdrawn on the same day in 2009, reported KhaoSod.
Additionally, Chandi should have received a loan account book detailing her loan status, including outstanding amounts, interest, and repayment schedules, if she had taken a loan.
The resolution of this case awaits the bank’s provision of all relevant financial documents to the Dhamrongtham Centre in Samoeng district, which will help determine if any legal action is necessary.
The story Chiang Mai woman claims bank loan fraud, 300,000 baht debt as seen on Thaiger News.
