Undercover operation leads to closure of Bangkok gambling establishment, resulting in the apprehension of seventy individuals.
In a significant move to combat organized crime and cyber fraud, Thailand, under the leadership of Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, has intensified its efforts to dismantle criminal networks, particularly those involved in scam operations and cybercrime linked to neighbouring countries.
The latest operation, a raid on a gambling den in Bangkok's Phahon Yothin area, marked the first such action under Minister Phumtham, who vowed to combat nationwide crime on his first day in office. Over 70 gamblers were arrested during the raid, and more than 800,000 baht in cash was seized.
The gambling den, located just 300 metres from a skytrain station, was a well-organized operation, featuring a phone deposit system, food services, and multiple escape doors. Games offered at the den included popular choices like hi-lo and online gambling on provided computers. The hi-lo board was one of the games offered at the gambling den.
The operators of the den were identified as Thais and Cambodians who rotated shifts. The illegal hub was causing insecurity and addiction among family members, according to the Department of Provincial Administration (DoPA) under the Ministry of Interior. The raid was initiated due to complaints from residents in Sai Mai district's Saphan Mai area.
This operation aligns with the Interior Ministry's broader crackdown on criminal networks. The DoPA chief, Chaiwat Chuntirapong, stated that this operation was part of the ministry's ongoing efforts.
Thailand's crackdown on criminal networks focuses on international cooperation, border control, interrupting illicit financial flows, targeted disruption of scam centers, and coordinated national policies to dismantle transnational cybercrime and protect Thai citizens from these growing threats. The country is working closely with regional partners like Cambodia, China, and Myanmar to dismantle telecom scam compounds and arrest suspects.
This whole-of-government strategy, which includes the collaboration of ministries like Digital Economy and Society, Foreign Affairs, and Interior, aims to protect Thailand's national security by combating transnational cybercrime and fraud networks. The suppression campaign has reportedly caused scam centers in Cambodia to lose estimated income worth about 30 billion baht.
As Thailand continues its crackdown on criminal networks, it sends a clear message that it is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens and combating the growing threats of cybercrime and fraud.
- In line with the general news about Thailand's crackdown on criminal networks, the recent raid on a casino-and-gambling operation in Bangkok, categorized under crime-and-justice, resulted in over 70 arrests and the seizure of more than 800,000 baht, showcasing the government's focus on dismantling transnational cybercrime.
- Amidst Thailand's ongoing efforts to combat cyber fraud and organized crime, the noticed increase in casino-games, such as hi-lo, in criminal networks highlights the need for increased scrutiny and regulation of such activities, as these games are often linked to cybercrime operations.
