Bangkok: Cyber police have launched an extensive operation named 'Hi-So Wing Breaker', targeting major online gambling networks within Bangkok and Chanthaburi. The operation led to the dismantling of two significant online gambling websites, ufafc24 and betflixgun, which had amassed a substantial turnover through illegal activities.
According to Thai News Agency, the operation focused on suspicious activities in the Chatuchak area of Bangkok, associated with the gambling website ufafc24. This website alone reported a turnover exceeding 250 million baht within just nine months. The operation resulted in the arrest of Mr. Naphat, identified as the major shareholder of ufafc24, along with the seizure of critical evidence, including electronic devices, bank accounts, ATM cards, and auctioned license plates.
Further investigation revealed a sophisticated financial trail involving cash withdrawals from ATMs located in the border area of Chanthaburi Province. Over 2,968 withdrawals were executed from 15 ATMs, amounting to more than 84 million baht. This prompted authorities to monitor and subsequently arrest three suspects involved in money withdrawals related to the gambling operations. The arrested individuals include two Cambodian nationals, Mr. BUNEA LY and MISS SOKMIEN PREAB, along with Mr. Wiraphat, a local hired to facilitate cash withdrawals.
The operation uncovered that the ufafc24 network had been clandestinely operating, allowing the general public to register and participate in online gambling activities. Detailed financial analysis revealed a staggering 7,892 financial transactions related to online gambling from April 67 to March 1, 68, totaling a circulation of over 250 million baht. Authorities identified 16 individuals involved in various roles such as money receivers, mule account handlers, and financial transaction facilitators.
The investigation further expanded to the arrest of Mr. Sumet, the alleged mastermind behind the betflixgun network, another significant gambling website with an annual turnover exceeding 240 million baht. Previous arrests in this network included 12 individuals, ranging from service admins to cash handlers. Seized assets from these operations included cash, electronics, vehicles, and precious items like gold bars and diamond rings, valued over 100 million baht.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Triang Phiwpaen, Commander of the Technology Crime Suppression Division, highlighted the success of capturing the leading figures of both gambling websites. Despite their affluent social status, both major shareholders denied the charges. Investigations revealed their involvement in laundering gambling proceeds to purchase valuable license plates for resale, each costing over a million baht, amassing a total value exceeding 10 million baht.
Authorities noted the strategic use of recognizable foreign surnames by such gambling websites to lure and reassure customers. The ongoing efforts aim to track down and prosecute remaining suspects with pending arrest warrants linked to these operations.