How fake jackpot claims exposed dark side of Thailand’s online lottery

13 Sept 09:42 Key points summarised by AI

Online lottery operator Hong Thong sparked a scandal by repeatedly making allegedly false claims about selling jackpot-winning tickets.
Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly questioned Hong Thong's claims, leading to the CEO's tearful apology and implicating actor Krittarit “Big M” Butprom, who subsequently lost his contract.
Rival operator Kong Salak Plus joined the fray, accusing Hong Thong of false claims and potential tax evasion, while Hong Thong retaliated with money-laundering allegations against Kong Salak Plus.
Both major online lottery platforms, Hong Thong and Kong Salak Plus, now face severe legal charges and increased scrutiny from authorities due to the high-profile accusations.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.