Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Euro 2024 Football Betting: Hundreds Arrested, Millions Seized
In Thailand, authorities have taken action against illegal online betting on Euro 2024 football, resulting in the arrest of 64 suspects and the seizure of over 280 million baht (US$7.6 million). The crackdown targeted two websites, wm88 and x-stand, along with other operations, with estimated revenues of 1.4 billion baht (US $38.1 million) between January and June.
During a search of a residence in Thong Lor, Bangkok, police confiscated 13,830,000 baht (US $376,460) and $3,200 in US currency. Luxury vehicles such as a Bentley, a Mercedes-Benz, and a GWM Tank SUV, as well as multiple residences, were seized, totaling 22,580,000 baht (US $614,672). The assets belonged to Xiang Zhang, 42, and Zhang Huiqing, 37, both of China, who claimed their resources came from selling a Chinese advertising firm and investing in cryptocurrency.
Another raid in Phrom Phong, Bangkok, led to the seizure of assets worth 287,396,713 baht (US $7,823,513) and the arrest of Jun Xia, 36, a Chinese national, and four Thai nationals. Charges against the key suspects include illegal electronic gambling and money laundering, with the possibility of further arrests in the future.
Prior to these recent arrests, 248 suspects were apprehended between June 14 and Thursday, with 28 involved in organizing illegal online activities and 220 engaged in gambling. Sixty-two illegal sports betting websites were shut down, with a total wagered amount of 1,400,150,007 baht (US $38 million). Additionally, 1,578 suspects were arrested for illegal gambling at physical gaming establishments, including players, bookies, and runners.
Officials have stressed that gambling is illegal in Thailand, and those caught will face prosecution, potentially leading to two years in prison and fines. Harsher penalties may apply if minors are found to be involved in the gambling activities. The cases were investigated by the Technology Crime Suppression Division and the Technology Crime Investigation Bureau.
