Thai MP Granted Bail in Online Gambling Probe

Thai MP Granted Bail in Online Gambling Probe

BANGKOK – A member of parliament from Thailand’s Klatham Party has been granted bail after appearing in court over allegations connected to an illegal online gambling network.

Chonnaput Naksua, an MP representing Songkhla Constituency 4, was released on Thursday after the Criminal Court of Thailand approved bail set at 1 million baht. As part of the conditions, he is prohibited from leaving the country while the investigation continues.

The lawmaker had earlier been taken to court by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) following a three-hour interrogation regarding his alleged involvement in organising illegal online gambling operations and money laundering.

Mr Chonnaput arrived at DSI headquarters around 11am accompanied by his lawyer to respond to the accusations. Authorities said investigators have gathered significant evidence, including audio recordings, that they believe link the MP to the gambling network.

However, the Songkhla lawmaker denied the allegations, insisting he had prepared documents to clarify the situation.

Before entering the questioning session, he told reporters that he had come voluntarily in response to a summons and expressed confidence that the evidence would ultimately clear his name.

“I’m not worried,” he said, adding that he believed the investigation would reveal the truth.

Calm Appearance During Investigation

Throughout the questioning at the DSI office, Mr Chonnaput appeared calm and relaxed while speaking with reporters. He also addressed questions regarding the possibility of asset seizures by the Anti‑Money Laundering Office (AMLO).

The MP stated he was not concerned about potential asset freezes and would clarify each issue as authorities raise them during the investigation.

At approximately 2.15pm, DSI officials escorted him to the Criminal Court located on Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok.

Notably, the MP was not handcuffed and was permitted to travel in his own vehicle, a Toyota Alphard, accompanied by his lawyer and DSI officers. Investigation vehicles escorted the car both in front and behind during the transfer.

Bail Granted Despite Investigators’ Objection

Investigators initially opposed bail during the interrogation stage, citing the seriousness of the charges. However, the court ultimately approved his release under strict conditions.

Although Mr Chonnaput currently serves as a member of parliament, he does not yet enjoy parliamentary immunity because Thailand’s parliament has not formally convened following the election cycle.

This means legal proceedings can continue without restrictions that sometimes apply to sitting lawmakers.

Serious Penalties if Convicted

The money-laundering charge linked to the suspected gambling network carries a maximum prison sentence of more than 10 years if proven in court.

Under Thai law, suspects in cases involving serious offences such as organised gambling and money laundering may be detained for extended periods during investigations. Authorities can request detention for up to seven periods of 12 days each, allowing for a maximum of 84 days while evidence is gathered.

For now, investigators say they will continue reviewing financial records, communications, and other evidence related to the alleged gambling network.

The case has drawn public attention as Thailand continues to crack down on illegal online gambling operations and financial crimes linked to such networks.

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