11:14
02 Apr

Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is caught up in a gripping political saga. He has stepped in as a mediator in a tense and dramatic situation where claims of bribes and an illegal online gambling operation have been made public.

The news made headlines as PM Srettha committed to ensuring justice amid a conflict involving two high-ranking police officers.

There was a dramatic turn of events when Sittra Biabungkerd, the secretary-general of the Foundation of People’s Lawyers, boldly made allegations against the National Police Chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol and his colleagues claimed their involvement in an illicit online gambling network.

Leadership Changes and Investigation

In a swift response, Prime Minister Srettha has decided to reassign Pol Gen Torsak and Deputy Police Chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn to less demanding positions within the PM’s Office, pending the outcome of an ongoing probe.

In a surprising turn of events, Deputy Police Chief Pol Gen Kitrat Panphet assumed the position of acting national police chief. This decision highlights the seriousness of the allegations and the government’s dedication to openness and fairness.

Mr. Srettha expressed his trust in the judicial system, which is known for its transparency and honesty, while standing on the steps of the Government House. His statement halted the rumors and speculations surrounding the scandal temporarily.

He assured the public that the justice process was underway, with the implicated officers being reassigned to guarantee a fair and impartial proceeding, aligning with the nation’s expectations as it closely followed the unfolding events.

Further Evidence and Demands

Nevertheless, things turned exciting when Mr. Sittra presented additional incriminating evidence.

He posted a photo of a secret meeting between Pol Gen Torsak and a monk, set against the peaceful backdrop of a Chachoengsao temple on December 17, 2022.

According to reports, it is claimed that the funding for this encounter was provided through a mysterious account known as Nattapol. This account transferred a questionable amount of 200,000 baht to the temple shortly before Pol Gen Torsak’s visit.

As per Mr. Sittra, this account served as a means of channeling funds to both the temple and the police chief’s family, which adds more dimension to the story.

The daring attorney wasn’t done there. He demanded that the prime minister investigate Pol Gen Torsak with the same rigor as that which was meted out to Pol Gen Surachate, who was embroiled in controversy over bribery claims connected to the controversial BNK Master online gambling case.

If he did not get fair treatment in the light of justice, Mr. Sittra threatened to go to the opposition.

Legal Actions and Developments

Amid the ongoing controversy, Pol Gen Surachate said he plans to take legal action against Mr. Sittra for defamation, further complicating the situation.

In the continued battle of the digital age, Pol Lt Gen Worawat Watnakornbancha, the chief of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, made an essential move by ordering the transfer of Pol Sen Sgt Maj Apichat Suwanphet and Pol Lt Col Surakul Thansiridamrong to police headquarters.

Mr. Sittra said that these individuals oversaw the notorious ‘ mule’ accounts linked to the gambling scandal, adding to the intrigue of this compelling story.

Conclusion

After the dramatic events in Thailand’s political and judicial landscape, it is evident that distinguishing between right and wrong can be challenging when power and intrigue come into play.

However, with individuals like Mr. Srettha and Mr. Sittra taking opposing stances, the ongoing battle for justice and transparency shows no signs of resolving.

Thailand has been dealing with the issue of illegal gambling for a considerable amount of time, resulting in frequent crackdowns on illicit gambling establishments.

These illegal operations, driven by a desire for gambling entertainment, have often sparked debate and highlighted the nation’s challenges with organized crime and corruption. Despite the efforts made by the government to crack down on it, the appeal of underground gambling continues to exist, underscoring the ongoing struggle to control unlawful practices within the country’s gaming sector.

Recent Instances of Illegal Gambling Crackdowns in Thailand

● Police Bust Russian-Ukrainian Poker Game in Phuket, Thailand
● $2 Billion Gambling Network Busted in Thailand
● Massive Illegal Casino Discovered in Thai Hotel
● Illegal Gambling Operation Busted in Bangkok – 14 Arrested
● Online Gambling Network Busted in Bangkok, Thailand – 16 Illegal Operations Raided, 10 Arrests
● Thai Police Detain Fun88 Casino Employees Connected to Serial Killer