PM Anutin Orders Total Crackdown on Money Launderers, Scammers
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Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated unequivocally that the government will not compromise with lawbreakers, referencing the arrest warrants for Ben Smith and six others on charges of cross-border money laundering, collusion, and illegal securities holdings in Thailand. He said the matter is neither strange nor new. The premier added he is pleased and has spoken with Police General Surachet Hakparn, commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, about conducting a fully transparent investigation. The commissioner replied that identities will be withheld and behavior judged solely on the law, demonstrating that the prime minister's policy directives are being implemented by the Anti-Money Laundering Office, Department of Special Investigation, National Anti-Corruption Commission, Royal Thai Police, and Office of the Narcotics Control Board.
The prime minister said he is deeply relieved that there is no interference, quoting the police chief: "No matter if they are Mister Whoever, Sir Whoever, or Madam Whoever — if they break the law, they must be prosecuted under the law." He thanked the media for easing public concern and insisted there will be no protection for offenders, especially under his administration.
"These cases are a drag on government work. Anyone who launders money or runs scams commits crimes that hinder the country's progress. The government has a duty to create prosperity and beauty for the nation, and we cannot let these people hold us back," Anutin said. He added there is no alternative but to suppress such crimes completely. Every agency will receive full support — a green light at every junction — to restore order and prosecute all offenders to the fullest extent.
Asked whether additional suspects still in Thailand have been reported, the prime minister said the net is widening continuously; one more person was added yesterday. He does not inquire into operational details because, as head of government, he has set the policy of zero compromise, leaving strategy and tactics to each agency head.
