Police Take Down Gambling Sites With $2.86 Million in Monthly Turnover

Police in northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai province have taken down a network on six online gambling websites with a monthly turnover of approximately 100 million baht (US$2.86 million). An inquiry by the Chiang Mai police led to the search o  the upscale residence.

Police officers with a search warrant inspected a luxury home in Sansai District of Chiang Mai, Province. The search turned up more than 90 computer gadgets and mobile phones, as well as 130 mule account bank books.

During the operation, authorities discovered vital evidence proving the organization of online gambling activity via six websites. According to reports, the operation generated a monthly revenue of 100 million baht. Police detained Mr. Wachira, 32, (last name withheld).

Mr. Wachira is now facing charges for organizing and assisting online gambling, with further investigations planned.

Police Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Websites

Thailand saw an increase in crackdowns on illegal gambling activities, particularly internet gambling, in 2022. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society reported the arrest of 461 people suspected of being involved with unlawful online gaming websites.

This increased enforcement is part of Thailand’s larger attempts to tackle illegal online gambling, which is still illegal in the nation.

Thai authorities have blocked thousands of illicit website URLs linked to anti-monarchy sentiment and unlawful internet gambling.

Only in 2022 were 6,024 internet URLs blacklisted, with 1,830 illicit gambling sites taken down. This robust move demonstrates Thailand’s determination to eradicate illegal online gambling enterprises within its borders.

Thailand and China have vowed to increase cooperation in tackling transnational crime, notably in combating internet gambling.

Furthermore, Thailand’s parliament will debate a study suggesting the potential deregulation of land-based casinos and online gambling businesses in the country.

This proposal highlights the ongoing discussion in Thailand over the legalization of gambling, a primarily Buddhist country where the subject has become divisive in recent years.

While Thailand battles illegal gaming, neighboring Southeast Asian countries such as Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia have legalized gambling.

This sharp discrepancy highlights the region’s complicated dynamics of gambling rules and attitudes toward it.

Illegal gambling is still a major issue in Thailand, motivating aggressive law enforcement and spurring discussions about potential regulatory adjustments.

As it navigates these problems, the country seeks to strike a balance between combating illegal gambling and addressing the wider societal and cultural repercussions of gambling within its boundaries.

Keywords: police department, police station