Prosecutor Postpones Forex Fraud Hearing for MP Phawut, Singer Film
Thailand's Special Prosecutor has postponed the indictment hearing for 34 suspects in a major forex investment fraud case, including Chart Pattana MP Phawut Phongwitthayaphanu and former singer Film. The delay, to December 4, is due to ongoing witness interviews. Phawut denies wrongdoing and alleges his case is being fast-tracked for political reasons, contrasting it with slower progress in cases involving government-aligned figures.
On November 5, 2026, at the Office of the Special Prosecutor on Ratchadaphisek Road, prosecutors held the second scheduled hearing in the case where the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) Technology and Information Division recommended prosecution of 34 suspects — 10 corporate entities and 24 individuals — for operating an unlicensed forex scheme. Among the suspects are MP Phawut Phongwitthayaphanu of the Chart Pattana Party and former celebrity singer Ratthaphum Thokhongthip (Film). They face charges of fraudulent borrowing, chain-referral fraud, public deception, unauthorized computer data entry, and money laundering.
Special Prosecutor Surachet Ngamwong, acting as spokesperson for the Supreme Prosecutor's Office, said the DSI submitted its investigation file with all 34 suspects on September 25, 2026. A working group ordered supplementary investigation on several points, prompting the first postponement to November 5. As the additional findings have not yet been received, the hearing has been pushed again to December 4, 2026.
Phawut, appearing for the second time, said the delay was understandable given the large number of parties involved and his own request to call additional witnesses. He maintained confidence in his evidence and financial records, insisting he never solicited investments in Forex3D. His legal team has prepared a bail application should indictment proceed.
Phawut also questioned the speed of his case compared to those involving other politicians, citing the case of Chart Pattana MP Suchada Sangthangthip, whose husband is allegedly linked to a gambling website, and the asset seizure against foundation head Panadda Wongphudee (Bum). He suggested his prosecution may be politically motivated due to his opposition stance.
After signing documents and meeting prosecutors, Phawut's lawyer confirmed the new hearing date of December 4 at 10:00 AM, pending completion of witness interviews. Ratthaphum did not appear, having previously requested a postponement due to overseas commitments, which prosecutors granted.
