DSI Submits Over 10,000 Pages of Documents in Online Gambling, Money Laundering Case Against High-Profile MP Network
The DSI submitted over 10,800 pages of evidence against 27 suspects, including a Songkhla MP, for operating illegal online gambling networks and laundering proceeds across multiple countries.
On May 15, 2025, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) compiled and submitted case documents to prosecutors at the Special Cases Office, consisting of 69 document items across 24 files totaling 10,866 pages. The submission seeks prosecution of those involved in charges including operating illegal gambling operations, money laundering, loan sharking, and conducting transnational organized crime activities for the Attorney General's consideration.
The case stems from Special Investigation Case No. 150/2568, which involves 27 suspects, including a national-level politician serving as a Member of Parliament. Through evidence collection, financial trail analysis, and transaction investigations, authorities found that the suspect group acted collectively as financiers and operators of illegal online gambling networks across multiple websites. The group laundered proceeds from online gambling offenses while employing deliberate strategies to obscure financial trails and avoid state agency detection. They utilized bank accounts opened by hired individuals and ordinary citizens to receive and transfer money related to the crimes, violating the Gambling Act of 1935 and the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 1999.
According to reports, of the 27 suspects named in arrest warrants, authorities have apprehended one female suspect who served as an online gambling website administrator, currently held in custody. This leaves 25 suspects still at large.
The remaining suspect is Chonnaphat Nakshan, MP from Songkhla representing the Palang Prachath Party, who enjoys parliamentary immunity. The DSI has coordinated with the Speaker of the House of Representatives to request bringing the suspect in for further questioning, as investigation revealed the establishment of gambling operation offices in neighboring countries. Due to his parliamentary immunity protection, Chonnaphat is not currently required to appear before special prosecutors. However, should the Speaker approve waiving his immunity, he would then be subject to further interrogation.
