Thai Boxer Suthivat Arrested for Promoting Gambling on Facebook
Date: 2024-09-19 Author: Alex Crawford Categories: EVENTS
Thailand continues to actively fight against unlicensed online gambling, which is accompanied by constant discussions about the possible legalization of casinos. In April this year, the country's authorities adopted a new policy that treats illegal gambling operations as serious economic crimes. Under this initiative, more than 25,000 websites offering gambling were blocked between October 2023 and April 2024.
The boxer pleaded guilty
Sutthiwat, who is 30, was charged with posting links to gambling sites to his Facebook followers, which number about 440,000. The investigation was conducted by the Central Bureau of Investigation in conjunction with the Technology Crime Unit. Police found that Sutthiwat received 1,500 Thai baht (about $45) for each time he posted advertisements in his stories.
Police Lieutenant General Jirapchob Bhuridej and Police Major General Athip Pongsivapai led the operation. Further evidence is being collected to formally charge the boxer.
Active fight against digital crime
Thai police are keeping up their campaign against illegal online gambling advertisements. Sutthiwat was apprehended thanks to the concerted efforts of law enforcement agencies, who used advanced cyber-control techniques to track his online activities.
Appeals to the public and further action
Authorities continue to emphasize that advertising gambling is a serious crime. The public are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity to help the police maintain order.
During the UEFA Championships, which ran from June 14 to July 14 and culminated in the final between Spain and England, the Royal Thai Police made about 2,600 arrests related to illegal gambling. The Thai Health Foundation also launched campaigns to raise awareness of the risks of gambling during the period.
According to a survey conducted by the Casino Committee of Thailand in 2022, more than 80% of participants supported the legalization of casinos.
