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The Thai political and police sectors are currently entangled in a massive online gambling scandal involving an estimated 2.5 billion Thai Baht (approximately $70 million USD).

Former Deputy Chief of the Royal Thai Police, "Big Joke," publicly accused a politician from the southern region of Thailand of involvement in online gambling operations, widely speculated to be Klartam Party MP Chonnanphut Naksua. Chonnanphut has personally denied all allegations, asserting that his financial status had previously passed scrutiny. However, political activist Atchariya Reuangrattanapong has submitted new evidence to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), alleging financial links between the MP and his family and the gambling ring. The investigation has also revealed that multiple police officers from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau may be involved, sparking broad public concern over the fairness and transparency of law enforcement.

Allegations and Subject Responses

Former Deputy Chief of the Royal Thai Police, "Big Joke," publicly accused a southern Thai politician (speculated by the public to be Klartam Party MP Chonnanphut Naksua) of participating in an online gambling operation involving 2.5 billion Thai Baht. Chonnanphut publicly denied all accusations, emphasizing that he had undergone comprehensive financial vetting prior to taking office. Although Klartam Party leader Thamanat Prompow defended him, claiming similar past allegations had been closed after investigation, these defenses have failed to completely quell public skepticism.

Submission of Evidence and Further Accusations

Political activist and Chairman of the Crime Victims Aid Club, Atchariya Reuangrattanapong, submitted evidence to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), claiming to have discovered financial connections between the gambling operators and Chonnanphut and his family. Atchariya further alleged that the MP had previously admitted to some misconduct and attempted to negotiate a private settlement. Consequently, Atchariya is calling for Chonnanphut to resign from the Police Commission, leave parliament, and permanently exit politics. Furthermore, Atchariya accused him of involvement in drug trafficking and plans to petition the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to seize related assets.

Police Involvement and Public Skepticism

The investigation indicates that multiple police officers, particularly members of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, may be directly implicated in the gambling network. These officers had previously held several press conferences to announce crackdowns on gambling, yet failed to forward the corresponding cases to court for prosecution. This discrepancy has directly led to widespread public questioning of the integrity and transparency of law enforcement. As the case continues to escalate, the public is closely monitoring the investigation's progress and the potential for a large-scale political and police reorganization in Thailand.