Unlicensed Slot555.com Gets Shut Down By Thailand Authorities
Slot555 which is a very popular online casino site in Asia has been shut down by Thailand authorities. Authorities in Bangkok recently announced that Slot555.com’s illegal operations across four provinces were put to an end with 11 arrests, including the alleged ringleader by the name of Wasan Kaosa-art. The individuals behind this illegal online gambling operation are facing a significant jail time.
The gambling site’s server was located in Bangkok’s Bueng Kim district, but according to media reports, Wasan had been operating multiple gambling sites apart than Slot555. The virtual gambling den had attracted more than ten thousand customers who would play a variety of online games.
Online gamblers reportedly lost close to 103 million in the local Thai Baht which works out to around $3.2 million. This cash was then funneled to Wasan’s family members in Samut Sakhon, Prachin Buri and Chachoengsao who held multiple accounts through which money was being transferred.
Wasan’s alleged programmer identified as Chatchai Saengkaew reportedly facilitated the money transactions and was in control of the gambling site’s design and technical details. Chatchai is still on the run, along with five other accomplices. The gambling site appeared in various Thai social media channels with photos of famous actresses and celebrities being used to lure potential customers.
Wasan and his conspirators have been charged with money laundering, conspiracy and illegal gambling. At least 3 million Baht in assets were seized from the syndicate. A Mini Cooper car, seven mobile phones, two big bikes, as well as bank accounts and other valuables are now in the possession of Thai authorities.
Surge In Illegal Online Gambling
Thailand has one of the toughest anti-gambling rules in Asia, but the country has seen a spike in illegal online gambling activities this year particularly in the wake of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. This has prompted authorities to step up their crackdown on illegal gambling sites. The authorities have reportedly shut down 748 of such online gambling sites after working together with a number of different government organizations. Thai officials are also dealing with the so-called net pretties who promote illegal wagering through social media.
In a statement, Police Major Gen Surachate said
Online gambling by law is a felony as it associated with money laundering. It is detrimental to the economic system and leads the public and young people astray
David WalkerAuthor
David is our resident 'down under' contributor, letting us know what is going on in the southern hemisphere, he is also keen blackjack player
