Thai Police Embroiled in Allegations of Gambling Site Links
A former high-ranking Thai police general has lodged a formal complaint, accusing over 30 police officers of significant involvement with illegal online gambling sites. Pol Gen Suchart Theerasawat submitted his detailed allegations to the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), triggering an immediate high-level investigation. The complaint highlights a pervasive network allegedly facilitating illegal gambling operations and other illicit activities across Thailand.
Suchart’s accusations specifically name 32 officers, including four generals and two police commanders. He claims these individuals are deeply integrated into the management and protection of various illegal online gambling platforms. These platforms reportedly include well-known names such as UFABET and GALAXY AUTO. The former general alleges that the officers receive substantial financial benefits from these operations, which he categorises as money laundering. He further suggests that the network extends beyond gambling, potentially linking to drug distribution and other serious crimes.
Detailed Accusations and Broader Criminal Network
The complaint outlines how funds from these illegal online gambling sites are allegedly channelled through a complex web of accounts. These accounts are said to belong to the accused officers and their associates, effectively laundering the proceeds of crime. Suchart asserts that the network is protected by a “powerful figure” within the police force, enabling its continued operation despite ongoing crackdowns. This protection, he argues, has allowed the illicit activities to thrive, undermining public trust in law enforcement.
The former general’s complaint also draws parallels to previous high-profile cases. He referenced the “Macau 888” gambling site scandal, which led to the dismissal of Pol Maj Gen Jirapat Phumjit and involved former high-ranking officer Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, often known as “Big Joke.” Suchart indicated that his current allegations build upon information uncovered during his own involvement in previous investigations into similar criminal enterprises. He emphasised the necessity of a thorough and impartial inquiry to dismantle these deeply entrenched networks.
Official Response and Investigation into Illegal Gambling Sites
National Police Chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol has responded swiftly to the grave accusations. He has ordered the immediate establishment of a dedicated investigation committee to probe the claims made by Pol Gen Suchart. The committee is tasked with meticulously reviewing the evidence and determining the veracity of the allegations against each named officer. General Torsak stressed the commitment of the Royal Thai Police to maintaining integrity and rooting out corruption within its ranks.
Thailand maintains strict laws against all forms of gambling, yet illegal online platforms continue to pose a significant challenge. The ongoing fight against these illegal gambling sites often uncovers links to organised crime and corruption within various sectors. The current investigation is expected to be comprehensive, potentially leading to widespread disciplinary action and criminal charges if the allegations are substantiated. The outcome will be closely watched as it could have profound implications for the credibility of the Thai police force and the national anti-corruption drive.
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