Thailand’s Aggressive Measures Against Illegal Gambling
Thai law enforcement has undertaken a substantial crackdown on illegal gambling operations associated with the Euro 2024 soccer tournament. Over the championship’s duration, authorities successfully shut down more than 200 websites linked to soccer-related gambling, revealing approximately 2.4 billion baht ($66.3 million) circulating within these black market platforms.
Coordinated Efforts to Target Illegal Operations
The crackdown, initiated on 14 June with the commencement of the Euro 2024 finals, concluded with notable success. Pol Lt Gen Akradet Pimolsri, the assistant national police chief, led the dedicated task force formed to address soccer betting cases.
Throughout this period, nearly 4,000 individuals were arrested for involvement in gambling-related activities, showcasing the extensive nature of the operation.
Among the arrested, 3,017 individuals were apprehended at physical gambling dens, including 50 bookies and 2,944 gamblers. Additionally, the shutdown of 224 local gambling websites resulted in the capture of 846 suspects, comprising 145 operators and 701 gamblers.
The operation underscored the widespread and lucrative nature of illegal gambling activities in Thailand, particularly during high-profile events like Euro 2024.
Persistent Challenges from Black Market Operations
Despite these efforts, the black market for gambling in Thailand continues to pose significant challenges. Thanakorn Komkrit, secretary-general of the Stop Gambling Foundation, had previously predicted a surge in soccer betting during Euro 2024.
He emphasized the ongoing struggle against the black market, where the potential for high profits often outweighs the fear of legal repercussions.
In May, the Ministry of Finance shut down around 6,500 illegal gambling websites. However, these efforts have seen limited long-term success, as new illegal outlets frequently emerge to replace those that were banned.
Komkrit pointed out that previously closed websites can easily re-enter the market by circumventing restrictions and rebranding.
