BANGKOK - Thai police have arrested an Algerian national wanted by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for allegedly making tens of millions of dollars from cyber crime, officials said Monday.


Hamza Bendelladj, 24, was arrested late Sunday while attempting to transit through Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport from Malaysia, Immigration Bureau chief Pharnu Kerdlarpphon said.

"We were tipped off to his arrival by the FBI, who have been following his case for the past three years," Pol Lt Gen Pharnu said.

Mr Bendelladj, who graduated in computer sciences in Algeria in 2008, has allegedly hacked private accounts in 217 banks and financial companies worldwide, amassing "huge amounts" in illicit earnings, Pol Lt Gen Pharnu told a press conference.

"With just one transaction he could earn 10 to 20 million dollars," Lt Gen Phanu said. "He's been travelling the world flying first class and living a life of luxury."

A satellite phone and notebook computer were his main tools, the commissioner said.