Thai government bets big on crackdown against online gambling

The Thai government took assertive action against online gambling websites, recognising them as significant economic crimes. Deputy Government spokesperson Kanika Aunjit announced the policy yesterday, March 31, revealing the government’s commitment to investigating, suspending, restricting, and blocking such websites nationwide.

Kanika conveyed that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had a keen acknowledgement of the issues linked with online gambling. The 62 year old Thai prime minister realised the economic crimes not only posed a threat to the Thai economy but also to society at large. Specifically, the online platforms were causing widespread damage through identity theft and easy access for the youth.

The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) in Thailand has been proactively addressing the cybercrimes associated with online gambling. From October 1, 2023, to March 5 this year, the DES successfully suspended over 60,681 units of inappropriate information on these platforms. Moreover, the DES managed to block more than 25,571 websites related to online gambling.

Under the Gambling Act, the host of gambling rings could face severe penalties. The punishment ranged from one to ten years of imprisonment and a fine of 20,000 to 200,000 baht, or both, in some cases. The law also had stringent penalties for individuals who lured others into gambling activities. They could face up to two years in prison and a fine of 2,000 baht, or both.

In her statement, Kanika expressed the government’s appeal to Thai citizens, urging them not to fall prey to the allure of quick profits from online gambling websites or misleading advertisements for investment. The government’s mission is to protect its citizens from the adverse effects of such activities, which have far-reaching consequences for individuals and the Thai economy.

As this battle against online gambling continues, it’s clear that the Thai government is leaving no stone unturned to curb these economic crimes. The intensive investigation and subsequent blocking of thousands of online gambling platforms are an indication of the government’s commitment to preserving the integrity of the Thai economy and society, reported Pattaya News.

Online gambling fight

Kanika’s announcement is a firm reminder of the government’s stance against online gambling. It also serves as a warning to those involved in such activities to desist, as the government’s resolve to prosecute those found guilty remains unshaken.

“The Thai government stated its concerns to Thai citizens not to be tempted by making profits from online gambling websites or exaggerated advertisements for investment.”

The Thai government’s fight against online gambling is a clear demonstration of its commitment to safeguarding not just the economy, but also the larger society from the detrimental effects of such activities.