Thai Boxing Star Nabbed for Gambling Promotion on Facebook

In a dramatic crackdown yesterday, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) collared famed Thai boxer, Sutthiwat, for promoting gambling websites. Sutthiwat, who boasts a whopping 440,000 followers on Facebook, has been advertising gambling site links for 1,500 baht per post.

The raid, orchestrated by Police Lieutenant General Jiraphob Bhuridej and Police Major General Athip Pongsiwapai, followed a thorough investigation into the 30-year-old boxer's online activities. Sutthiwat confessed, "I am the owner of the Facebook page and was paid by the gambling website owner to post advertisements in my stories."

This act violates Section 12 of the Gambling Act of 1935, which prohibits unauthorized gambling adverts. The TCSD is currently compiling evidence to press charges formally against Sutthiwat.

The investigation began as part of a nationwide campaign to eliminate illegal gambling promotions online. TCSD officers, through meticulous forensic work, identified Sutthiwat's involvement and summoned him for questioning, where he admitted his wrongdoing.

"We have been vigilant in monitoring online activities and were able to identify this case through our ongoing efforts," said a TCSD officer, highlighting the department’s commitment to eradicating digital crimes.

The authorities send a clear message: promoting gambling is a serious offence. This clampdown is part of a larger effort to cleanse Thailand of illegal gambling. The public is urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help maintain social order and legality.

The investigation is ongoing, and the police reassure the public of their dedication to upholding the law and curtailing such illicit operations.

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