Amlo Seizes Additional 44 Million Baht Linked to Gambling Case Involving MP Chonnaput
Amlo has seized an additional 44 million baht in cash and digital assets linked to an online gambling network involving MP Chonnaput Naksua, expanding the ongoing investigation and asset freeze
Key Points
- 1Amlo seized 44 million baht in cash and digital assets linked to MP Chonnaput's alleged gambling network
- 2Previous asset seizures in the case totaled about 182 million baht
- 3The temporary freeze on these assets will last up to 90 days, with a 30-day window to contest the order
- 4DSI recommended prosecutors indict Chonnaput on charges including online gambling and money laundering
- 5Authorities submitted 12,000 pages of evidence to support charges against the MP
The Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) has seized an extra 44 million baht in cash and digital assets as part of an ongoing investigation into an online gambling network allegedly led by Klatham Party MP Chonnaput Naksua. This latest action follows earlier asset seizures totaling about 182 million baht, which are currently under review by the Civil Court, according to Bangkok Post (Thailand). Amlo stated, “The action followed an expanded investigation into a group comprising Mr Chonnaput and his associates, who have been accused of organising gambling through electronic media.”
The seized assets include both cash and digital funds held in a trading account, with the temporary freeze set for up to 90 days. Those affected by the freeze have the option to submit a written request to the Amlo secretary-general within 30 days of notification, providing evidence to support the revocation of the order. Amlo emphasized that the investigation uncovered additional assets directly linked to the alleged offences
On August 24, the Department of Special Investigation recommended prosecutors indict Mr Chonnaput on multiple charges, including organizing illegal online gambling, money laundering, transnational crime, and illegal assembly. Authorities delivered 12,000 pages of evidence to the Office of the Attorney-General, outlining the charges against the 36-year-old MP from Songkhla. Mr Chonnaput is also suspected of connections to illegal gambling websites operating in other countries
For Koh Samui residents and visitors, this high-profile case underlines the authorities' focus on cracking down on online gambling networks in Thailand. OG Lab notes that the ongoing legal process may set new precedents for asset seizure and digital enforcement, impacting both local and regional digital economies
