Thailand’s intensifying focus on illegal online gambling has spilled into the political arena after cybercrime authorities detained Ratchapong Soisuwan, a 32-year-old parliamentary candidate, in connection with an alleged online betting operation.
According to multiple Thai media reports, the arrest followed an investigation by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), which carried out searches at the suspect’s Bangkok residence and two additional locations. Authorities allege the case involves organising illegal gambling through electronic channels and an associated money-laundering conspiracy—a pairing that has become common as police target payment rails and beneficiary accounts rather than only front-end websites.
Coverage of the probe links the investigation to the domain nakarin789.com, with reporting indicating that funds connected to gambling activity were traced to a bank account held in the candidate’s name. Two other individuals—Somphot Kaewprasit and Kanchana Namhong—were also reported as detained as the inquiry expanded.
Police have not released a full financial statement, but one local report cited CCIB commentary suggesting the alleged network may have circulated 300–400 million baht in cashflow since 2022. While that figure is presented as an allegation rather than a court finding, it underscores why online gambling cases in Thailand increasingly draw money-laundering scrutiny: scale turns a vice issue into a financial-crime one.
The political response has been cautious. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, leader of the People’s Party and a prime ministerial candidate, publicly reiterated a “zero tolerance” stance toward grey-area activities and signaled the party would not intervene to shield individuals facing investigation. Separate reporting suggested the candidate was suspended, though Thai election rules generally hinge on legal status such as conviction or custody at key dates.
With a national vote expected in February, the case highlights the reputational risk that enforcement actions can pose for parties—while also illustrating a broader trend: Thailand’s cyber police are treating illegal gambling as a payments-and-proceeds problem, not just a website problem.
