Digital Minister Briefs Parliament on 40 Million Baht Bribery Allegation

Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiyachon Chidchob appeared before the parliamentary committee on law, justice, and human rights on September 17 to address a case in which someone allegedly offered him 40 million baht from online gambling enforcement operations. He was initially asked to appear as a representative instead of the permanent secretary.

After the briefing, Chaiyachon told reporters that relevant agencies are already investigating the matter. He said he had submitted information to a committee chaired by Rangsiman Rome, deputy leader of the People's Party, which had requested details about the ministry's online gambling website closures. He noted the ministry has shut down over one million URLs since his tenure began and confirmed all agencies are working at full capacity.

When asked how authorities would prosecute the person who allegedly offered the bribe, Chaiyachon said the Royal Thai Police are exploring ways to identify the individual in question. Regarding whether the person offering 40 million baht actually exists, Chaiyachon said he initially received a warning from Vorasit Liangprasit, the Interior Ministry's deputy permanent secretary at the time, and later received a loyalty card from a citizen during a field visit, which he forwarded to police and relevant agencies for further investigation.

Chaiyachon stated he has no objection to the committee's inquiry and that the committee chair asked if there were any further actions he could take. He responded that multiple agencies are currently handling the matter and that everything rests with the National Anti-Corruption Commission. He confirmed he has already provided all evidence, including the original warning and information about the loyalty card. He added that the ministry has reduced scammer activity by over 50 percent and has closed online gambling websites far more frequently than before, working on all fronts regardless of whether cases are connected.