Thailand shuts down two illegal gambling platforms, confiscates illicit funds

Jenny Ortiz February 16, 2024

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Thailand shuts down two illegal gambling platforms, confiscates illicit funds

The Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) of the Royal Thai Police closed two online gambling networks and confiscated millions of baht in illicit funds on Wednesday.

According to the Asia Gaming Brief, the police seized more than THB18 million (€463,000) in cash and arrested 26 individuals tied to gambling websites ramruy.net and pok9.com.

The illegal gambling sites were reported to have turned over in excess around THB300 million (7.7 million Euros) per month.

Moreover, assets such as vehicles, designer bags, and luxury watches worth over THB40 million (1.05 million Euros), were also confiscated during the operation.

Among the arrested individuals were betting agents, financial managers and beneficiaries of the operation.

Thailand detains two foreigners for operating illegal gambling sites

Meanwhile, two South Korean nationals were arrested in Bangkok for operating an illegal online gambling platform.

The report said the two, aged 30 and 38, were arrested at separate locations in the country’s capital.

They are accused of being involved in the operation of Oppa Casino and for overstaying their visas.

The South Koreans are now facing criminal proceedings in Thailand, as well as extradition to their home country where additional charges may be filed against them.

Legalisation of gambling in the country

In November 2023, the country’s Members of Parliament passed with no objections a proposal to create a review committee to look into reforming existing policy in gambling and casinos.

Thailand’s Gambling Act 1935 currently prohibits ‘land-based’ casinos and limits betting to horse racing and government-sanctioned lotteries.

According to a TTG Asia report, the proposal aims to boost the economy and tourism with a suggested 30 percent tax on licensed premises, which could raise up to 100 billion baht (€2.79 billion Euros) per year.

If the new legislation is passed, it would also permit sports betting and online gambling.

SiGMA Eurasia and SiGMA Africa – less than a month away

With less than a month until the highly anticipated SiGMA Africa event kicks off in Cape Town, South Africa on the 11th of March, the gaming industry is abuzz with excitement. Building on the success of its inaugural edition in Nairobi, Kenya, in January 2023, SiGMA Africa is strategically positioning itself at the forefront of Africa’s burgeoning gaming landscape. With the continent’s market poised for exponential growth, driven by a rapidly evolving digital ecosystem and increasing mobile connectivity, SiGMA Group recognizes the need to foster collaboration and innovation within the industry. By bringing together leading stakeholders and visionaries in gaming, SiGMA aims to catalyse progress and propel Africa towards a new era of prosperity and opportunity. As the countdown to the event begins, anticipation mounts for what promises to be a landmark gathering of gaming enthusiasts and innovators in the vibrant city of Cape Town.

The fourth edition of?SiGMA Eurasia?will once again be held at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Held between the 25 and 27 February 2024, the summit provides invaluable opportunities for attendees to network with industry professionals, gain exposure to the latest tech and innovations in the sector, meet key decision makers, and gain insight into new markets.??