Thai Police Arrest Former Muay Thai Champion for Running Illegal Gambling Operation
Former Muay Thai Champion Arrested in Illegal Gambling Bust
Thai authorities have arrested a former Muay Thai champion who allegedly operated an illegal gambling scheme that reportedly earned over 100 million baht, equivalent to $3.1 million, in just three years.
About the Ex-Boxer: Weerapong Unlamai
Weerapong Unlamai, widely recognized by his ring name Puenkon Tor Surat, is a well-known figure in the world of Muay Thai. Throughout his fighting career, he earned notable achievements including two Fighter of the Year awards in 2016 and securing the Super Flyweight 115-pound championship that same year. Although his fighting career suffered a downturn with losses in 2022, his activities beyond the ring drew the attention of law enforcement.
Investigation and Discovery of the Gambling Network
The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), led by Pol Maj Gen Chatchapandhakan Klaiklueng, uncovered Puenkon’s involvement during a wide-scale crackdown on illegal betting operations. The CCIB’s investigation targeted the “Knock Out 100-Million” website and uncovered the g2g69bet online platform, both linked to extensive suspicious financial transactions.
Authorities identified Puenkon Tor Surat as a key administrator of the gambling ring, which was responsible for substantial illicit revenues accumulated over several years.
Arrests and Seizures
Law enforcement executed coordinated raids across nine locations, including residences in the provinces of Saen Suk, Chonburi, and Lamphun. During these operations, eight individuals were arrested, including the former Muay Thai fighter.
Items confiscated included credit cards, bank statements, mobile phones, and computer equipment, all believed to be connected to the illegal gambling enterprise. Alongside Puenkon, five suspects were apprehended in Chonburi with two others detained in Lamphun.
Charges and Admission
The detainees now face allegations related to operating unlawful gambling activities through unauthorized media channels and engaging in money laundering schemes.
Upon questioning, Puenkon disclosed that his involvement in the illegal gambling business had become his primary source of income following the decline of his professional fighting career.
