A GERMAN accused of internet fraud amounting to a million euros or more was arrested by Immigration police on Phuket today.

The man, named as Lars Scheffczik, 38, has been living illegally on Phuket with his Thai wife and two children since his passport was seized three years ago.

German authorities issued an international arrest warrant and Mr Scheffczik was nabbed this morning after detective work by Immigration police located him at a house in Chalong.

Based on Phuket, Mr Scheffczik allegedly sold computers, cameras and other electrical equipment via the Internet, seeking a deposit, with no intention of delivering the goods, say officials.

Phuket's German honorary consul, Dirk Naumann, said today that Phuket Immigration deserved praise for their work in apprehending Mr Scheffczik this morning.

It is believed that more than 100 cases of fraud are involved in Germany alone, with more in Austria and Switzerland, and the possibility that there could be more incidents that have yet to be reported.

Phuket Immigration Superintendent Colonel Panuwat Ruamrak said that Mr Scheffczik was arrested today by Immigration officers and handed over to police at Chalong to be interviewed. He is likely to appear in court later this week.