Thai Police Arrest Five Indians in Crackdown on Illegal Online Gambling
Police Detain Five Indian Nationals in Pattaya Condominium
Authorities in Thailand have detained five Indian men suspected of managing an illegal online gambling operation. The arrests followed a police raid at a condominium located in Pattaya, where the suspects were allegedly operating their scheme.
Details of the Police Operation
On Wednesday, immigration officers from Chon Buri conducted a search in a condominium unit on the second floor in Soi Thep Prasit 17, Tambon Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district. The raid was prompted by intelligence indicating that several Indian nationals were living and working at the location. Officers found five men using laptops, with over 20 mobile phones scattered on a table within the unit.
The individuals, aged between 24 and 39, were arrested and questioned. Although they denied illegal activities, their accounts were inconsistent. According to Pol Col Napasphong Khositsuriyamanee, the head of Chon Buri immigration police, the men admitted to assisting customers but did not disclose the specific nature of their work.
Context Amid Thailand’s Tougher Gambling Policies
These arrests come as Thailand appears to adopt a stricter approach to gambling enforcement. Recently, Thailand’s Prime Minister halted plans to legalize casinos, signaling a significant policy shift under the current government administration.
How the Illegal Gambling Operation Was Functioning
Authorities discovered notebooks during the search that detailed transactions worth several million Indian rupees, equivalent to about 2 million Thai baht (around $54,000). This money is believed to be linked to online gambling platforms serving foreign customers. The raid also resulted in the seizure of three laptops, 22 mobile phones, a tablet, credit cards, and financial records indicating money transfers.
Investigators suspect that the group was part of a broader offshore network, using Thailand as an administrative center to manage customer support, payment processing, and player verification for illegal gambling websites beyond the reach of Thai law.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The five suspects are currently held for further interrogation while authorities analyze the digital devices and financial documents. They are likely to face charges related to working without proper permits and violations under the Foreigners’ Working Management Decree. Additional offenses may be pursued as the investigation progresses and more evidence is reviewed.
