Exposing Gambling Network: Local Politician Launders Money through Famous Northeastern Temple

An investigation has uncovered a sophisticated online gambling network involving several individuals, including local politicians and a school director, operating websites like www.huaysodplus.com and Banhuay98. The network includes Thanawut Saengkaenphet (44, school director), Suphachok Palakrai (64, former police officer), Phatthamapong Phutagoen (31, local politician) and Pornnapa Saengtopho (30). The group has been using an elaborate money laundering scheme through famous temples in Northeastern Thailand. Their method involves creating religious merit events, organizing large-scale fundraising ceremonies, and auctioning holy objects to disguise gambling proceeds. They reportedly laundered around 20 million baht by creating commemorative amulets and selling them through networks. Local politician Phatthamapong (known as 'Priao') submitted an asset declaration of 82 million baht to anti-corruption authorities, with 42 million claimed as valuable amulets. Investigators are currently examining whether these declarations are fraudulent. After arrest warrants were issued, some suspects are attempting to coordinate their surrender, with two key politicians having fled through Nong Khai province since January 20th. The network has been investing gambling profits in real estate, luxury cars, restaurants, and boxing camps.