Authorities in Thailand have arrested six nationals in relation to a major gambling website which had over THB3.2 billion ($95.95 million) in circulation.
The plot uncovered by Thai authorities indicates the new depths that scam operators, oftentimes linked to illegal online gambling operations, are willing to go to in order to continue their operations.
According to reports, the group operated a nonexistent agricultural trading company, which served as a front for the website.
Authorities say that the suspects opened fake accounts and set up the company as a front for the site, which was operated by three foreign nationals.
Investigators discovered that the money from the operation had been transferred to the fake company.
Funds were transferred from punters to the mule accounts, then to the company, and onwards to the three operators of the website.
Authorities indicate those running the website were two Chinese nationals and one Indonesian, while both Indonesian authorities and Interpol are searching for the foreign suspects.
More than two dozen other individuals are believed to have been involved in the operation, including five Malaysians and one Cambodian.
The highlights Thailand’s attempt to progress with legalization of land-based casinos, with the potential for an online gaming component. Despite opposition, Thai authorities appear confident they can push through their entertainment complex bill, with hopes that legalized gambling can eliminate the underground market.
