Bangkok: The Senate’s Information, Communication and Telecommunications Technology (ICT) Committee has issued a stern warning to the Minister of Digital Economy, threatening to invoke Section 157 to prosecute him for allegedly allowing deceptive advertisements to mislead the public. The committee’s frustration centers on the minister’s perceived inaction, which they argue has enabled figures like ‘Dr. Boon’ to evade accountability and continue fraudulent activities. They are calling on the government to prioritize combating online fraud as a national agenda.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Premsak Piayura, a Senator and Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee, revealed the findings from a recent committee meeting held on December 2. The meeting focused on the investigation of social media advertisements encouraging investment in assets, which has reportedly jeopardized the country’s economic security. Key agencies, including the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, were summoned to explain their role in
the case involving Dr. Boon Vanasin, the founder of Thonburi Hospital. Dr. Boon is accused of fraud and money laundering amounting to over 7.5 billion baht. Despite a complaint lodged at Huai Khwang Police Station in 2023, no action was taken, allowing Dr. Boon to leave the country without asset seizure. The fraudulent activities were conducted through a broker who convinced investors familiar with the Thonburi Hospital Group to invest.
Dr. Premsak criticized the agencies for merely passing the responsibility and failing to take decisive action. He emphasized that government agencies should not just warn the public against greed but should actively enforce their mandates. He urged the government to hold social media platforms accountable for allowing deceptive advertisements, as these platforms claim exemption from Thai legal jurisdiction. Dr. Premsak also pressed for the fast-tracking of laws to combat online fraud, aligning with the government’s policy statement to parliament.
Continuing on Dr. Boon’s cas
e, Dr. Premsak stated that the committee would monitor developments and pursue further investigations if any anomalies are detected. He labeled the Ministry of Digital Economy’s inaction as a dereliction of duty, which has resulted in further victimization of the public. The committee plans to host a live forum in their next meeting to discuss the progress of the investigation. Furthermore, should fraudulent activities persist online, they intend to petition the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to take action against Mr. Prasert Chantrongthong, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy.