Thai cyber police arrest influencer for promoting online gambling
A well-known Thai influencer was arrested for promoting online gambling as part of the Cyber police’s Operation You’ll Know Soon.
The arrest took place yesterday, November 13, led by high-ranking officials including Police Major General Chirawat Payungtham and Police Major General Wiwat Kamchamnan, with the directive to crack down on crimes affecting the public, as outlined by Police General Kittirat Phanphet.
The arrest occurred at a petrol station in the Thonburi area, stressing the police’s focus on arresting influential social figures who misuse their status to encourage illegal activities.
Sek Atsada, known as Tee Oros, notorious for his influence, was found advertising online gambling through his personal Facebook account. He posted links to a popular gambling website, enticing the public, including vulnerable youth, to participate.
During interrogation, Sek confessed to personally advertising the site for a substantial fee of 30,000 baht. He acknowledged his role in promoting gambling, said Chirawat.
“The actions of influencers like Tee Oros set a poor example, leading many, especially young people, astray,”
This highlights the ongoing efforts by the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) to address crimes that significantly impact citizens. The focus is on individuals with societal influence, such as influencers and YouTubers, who can sway public opinion and behaviour.
This arrest is part of a broader campaign to enforce stricter regulations against online gambling. The police are keen on dismantling networks that use social media and other online platforms to lure unsuspecting users into gambling.
Such operations are crucial in maintaining public order and protecting citizens from the adverse effects of gambling, said Chirawat.
“Our mission is to protect the public from the harms of online gambling and ensure that those who exploit their influence for illegal gains face justice.”
The case against Sek is ongoing, with charges laid for organising and advertising gambling, directly or indirectly encouraging public participation in gambling activities. The police continue to investigate and are expected to pursue further action against those involved in this network, reported KhaoSod.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Newsflare reports the arrest of influencer Araya Suwannachote for illegally promoting online gambling, highlighting growing scrutiny on digital crimes in Thailand amid financial struggles faced by influencers. (read more)
- Jakarta Globe reports Indonesian police intensifying their crackdown on online gambling, targeting influencers and officials amidst President Prabowo Subianto’s commitment to eradicate this illegal activity, revealing widespread involvement across society. (read more)
- Tech Times highlights the arrest of 27 Malaysian influencers linked to illegal gambling promotions, revealing the risks of influencer marketing and its growing significance in modern advertising strategies. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why are influencers like Tee Oros particularly targeted in online gambling crackdowns?
They can sway public behaviour, making their endorsement of illegal activities highly impactful.
How could Tee Oros’s arrest influence other influencers involved in similar activities?
It serves as a deterrent, signalling that misuse of influence for illegal gains will face legal consequences.
What if police fail to curb influencers promoting illegal activities?
It could lead to increased societal harm, such as youth engagement in gambling and undermining of family values.
How do online platforms contribute to the rise of illegal gambling activities?
They offer accessibility and anonymity, making reaching and enticing potential gamblers easier.
What societal impacts can arise from untreated online gambling promotion?
Potential outcomes include financial ruin for individuals and increased crime rates linked to gambling dependencies.
