Thai actress, DJ, and media personality Nana Rybena (Rybena Intachai) was arrested on the morning of December 3 at her residence in central Bangkok, according to The Nation.
The arrest was carried out by officers from the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECSD) after allegations that she operated a fraudulent loan and investment scheme that scammed 17 victims, causing damages exceeding 190 million baht.
Authorities confirmed that Rybena is being investigated for fraud and violations of Thailand’s Emergency Decree on Loans, specifically relating to a deceptive lending program she allegedly promoted. Victims reported joining her schemes based on trust, reputation, and personal connections.
Her lawyer, Saiyud Pengbunchu, revealed that he had advised Rybena to surrender voluntarily on December 1 to demonstrate her willingness to cooperate. However, authorities delayed accepting her surrender and later issued a formal arrest warrant. She was subsequently taken into custody on December 3.
Investigators uncovered that Rybena used her fame and social network to encourage acquaintances, friends, and parents from her community to invest in her projects. These included:
- Personal loan services with monthly interest rates of 4–7%
- Stock trading with “high-profile investors”
- Investment in basketball court businesses
- Overseas restaurant ventures
- Family-run business funds
Initially, some investors received the promised returns, which boosted credibility. But by February 2025, all payouts stopped. Rybena allegedly claimed her bank accounts had been frozen by authorities, preventing repayment.
When questioned by investors, she issued multiple reimbursement checks — all of which bounced due to insufficient funds. This intensified suspicion that the entire operation functioned as a Ponzi scheme, using new investors’ money to pay earlier participants.
Police reports further revealed that Rybena allegedly forged bank transfer statements and fake share transfer documents tied to her hair salon business to deceive investors.
These findings solidified the case that she had violated Thailand’s emergency lending laws through deceptive public lending practices.
Despite mounting evidence, Rybena has denied all allegations, insisting she never intended to deceive anyone. Police state that the investigation is ongoing, with more procedural steps underway.
Earlier, Thai social media erupted with rumors that a celebrity known only by the initial “N.” had defaulted on debts amounting to 400 million baht. Public suspicion quickly pointed toward Nana Rybena, who fits the profile of a highly active multi-industry personality actress, DJ, TV host, racer, and business owner involved in ventures such as: a hair salon, a children’s clothing line, event and concert organizing.
Rybena later confirmed she was the celebrity “N.” referenced in the rumors, though she stated she couldn’t disclose details at the time and hoped to continue working.
Sources: K14
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