Italian George Clooney fraudster arrested in Thailand

On-the-run man faces jail sentence for using actor’s name to promote bogus clothing firm

Francesco Galdelli  after he was arrested in Thailand. Photograph: AFP/Getty Images
Francesco Galdelli after he was arrested in Thailand. Photograph: AFP/Getty Images

Thai police have arrested an Italian man wanted in his home country after fleeing a jail sentence for fraudulently using the name of actor George Clooney to promote investments in a bogus clothing company.

Francesco Galdeli, 58, was arrested on Saturday near the city of Pattaya on suspicion of staying in the country illegally.

Offices also arrested 45-year-old Vanja Goffi on suspicion of overstaying her visa.

Thai authorities say an Interpol notice had been issued for Galdeli.

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He was sentenced by a Milan court to more than eight years in jail in 2010 after being found guilty of impersonating Clooney in order to trick investors.–Associated Press