Thailand Expands Online Gambling Investigation

Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has expanded its investigation into an alleged online gambling network connected to Klatham Party MP for Songkhla, Chonnaput Naksua, with the case now covering money-laundering and transnational crime allegations.

According to sources involved in the investigation, the DSI completed its inquiry and submitted the case to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) on 14 May. After reviewing the file, prosecutors recommended that legal action be extended to include six additional suspects believed to be linked to the network.

Investigators said the six individuals are suspected of helping operate the gambling syndicate. One arrest warrant has already been issued, while evidence is still being gathered against the remaining five suspects in line with the OAG’s recommendations.

The expanded case includes possible charges such as participating in a secret criminal association, jointly operating illegal online gambling activities without a licence, conspiracy to commit money laundering and involvement in a transnational criminal organisation.

The DSI’s Bureau of Technology and Information Inspection Centre said several suspects have already been prosecuted and that some are believed to have operated from neighbouring countries. Authorities are also examining financial transactions and assets connected to the network as part of the broader investigation.

The additional charges expected against Mr Chonnaput will be filed formally after the current parliamentary session ends, as parliament remains in session.

Among the allegations expected to be added are participation in a secret criminal association and involvement in a transnational criminal organisation. The offences carry potential prison sentences of up to seven years and fifteen years respectively.

The investigation dates back to 2019. Mr Chonnaput appeared before the DSI in March after receiving a summons. The Anti-Money Laundering Office has since ordered two rounds of asset seizures involving him and individuals linked to the network, with the total value reported at around 160 million baht.

Authorities said the asset seizures form part of a wider effort to dismantle the financial structure of the alleged gambling operation. The investigation remains ongoing as officials continue gathering evidence, tracing financial flows and examining the network’s broader connections.