BANGKOK, Thailand – The Royal Thai Police has intensified its nationwide crackdown on illegal betting related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup by shutting down websites, financial channels, and criminal networks. Deputy Inspector-General and Royal Thai Police Spokesperson Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwphan announced that the Center for the Prevention and Suppression of Illegal Betting on the 2026 FIFA World Cup conducted nationwide operations from June 6 to 14.
Authorities recorded 596 cases involving 629 suspects. These included 64 World Cup betting cases with 80 suspects identified as bookmakers or organizers, and 278 cases with 279 suspects identified as gamblers. Police also addressed 254 cases of other online gambling involving 270 suspects. Authorities blocked 128 gambling websites or URLs. Investigators identified over 2.15 billion baht in financial transactions linked to these networks. Investigations are ongoing to seize assets and identify organizers and mule-account holders.
The spokesperson stated that the main objective is to dismantle the financial and operational structures of online gambling networks. He urged the public not to participate in illegal betting, accept payment to open mule accounts, or allow young people to become involved. The public can report suspected gambling websites or illegal football betting to local police stations or through the 191 and 1599 hotlines, available 24 hours a day. (NNT)
