Authorities have arrested a Thai political candidate, accusing them of participating in an online gambling network and laundering money.
Ratchapong Soisuwan is a parliamentary candidate for the People’s Party in Thailand’s upcoming February general election. The website nakarin789.com has accused him of being connected to an online gambling operation.
Officers from the CCIB (Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau) raided Soisuwan’s home in Bangkok, along with two other addresses. The raids led to the arrests of Somphot Kaewprasit and Kanchana Namhong.
Authorities traced funds from the gambling operation to a bank account under Soisuwan’s name, according to local media.
The People’s Party leader, as well as prime ministerial candidate Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut reiterated the zero-tolerance of his party stance against any form of corruption or illegal behavior in response to the news.
He emphasized to the media that the party would not shield any member accused of wrongdoing attempt to stop any judicial process during an emergency press conference held following news of the arrest.
The People’s Party is currently edging a tight lead in the polls for the election. The arrest of Soisuwan will no doubt be a setback for the party. It will also likely end his chances of running for election.
They will likely take the lead in blocking the grey market. Distrust in the government is already high after a series of issues throughout 2025.
Ruengpanyawut emphasized that they will focus on removing grey market links from the government. He also urged authorities to take strict action against any politicians involved in criminal activities, including money laundering and online gambling networks.
Online gambling scandals have previously involved high-ranking officials.
