Authorities in Thailand have arrested a well-known Thai boxer simply known as “Sutthiwat” for promoting gambling websites.
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) took down Sutthiwat, who has around 440,000 followers on Facebook, after he was found advertising gambling website links at THB1,500 ($45) per post.
The operation, led by Police Lieutenant General Jiraphob Bhuridej and Police Major General Athip Pongsiwapai, followed an in-depth investigation into the 30-year-old’s online activities. Sutthiwat confessed, “I am the owner of the Facebook page and was paid by the gambling website owner to post advertisements in my stories.”
This act directly violates Section 12 of the Gambling Act of 1935, which strictly prohibits unauthorized gambling advertisements. The TCSD is currently gathering all necessary evidence to formally press charges against the boxer.
The investigation kicked off as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal gambling promotions online. Using meticulous forensic methods, TCSD officers traced Sutthiwat’s involvement and brought him in for questioning, where he admitted to the violation.
“We’ve been actively monitoring online activities, and our efforts paid off in identifying this case,” said a TCSD officer, emphasizing the department’s determination to combat digital crime.
Authorities are making it clear: promoting gambling is a serious offense. This action is part of a broader mission to rid Thailand of illegal gambling, urging the public to stay alert and report suspicious activities to help maintain law and order.
The investigation remains ongoing, with police assuring the public of their commitment to upholding the law and curbing these illicit activities.
