BANGKOK, Thailand — Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaichanok Chidchob has submitted documentary evidence to a parliamentary committee, supporting his claim that he was offered a 40-million-baht bribe to impede government action against online scams and gambling networks.
Parliamentary Inquiry and Minister’s Response
The House Committee on Telecommunications and Digital Affairs confirmed on Thursday that Minister Chaichanok had forwarded key documents related to the alleged bribery attempt. Although he was absent from the scheduled hearing, the committee acknowledged receipt of the evidence, which pertains to a police complaint Chaichanok filed earlier in the week. The complaint alleges that an unidentified group sought to persuade him to halt efforts targeting cybercriminal syndicates.
The committee, working in coordination with the Committee on National Security, Border Affairs, National Strategy, and National Reform, had anticipated a direct briefing from the minister. Chaichanok, however, has requested that the investigation be completed before he discloses further details. “I stand by what I reported. Let the investigation proceed—those involved may start turning on each other,” he stated.
Scope of Allegations and Ongoing Investigations
When questioned about the number of individuals involved in the bribery attempt, Chaichanok declined to specify, suggesting the network could be broader than initially believed. He indicated that intermediaries, rather than direct contacts, had approached him multiple times. The minister also noted that several government agencies are currently addressing call centre scams, but did not confirm whether any officials from the previous administration were implicated.
According to reports in the Bangkok Post, Chaichanok refrained from commenting on whether any government officials had accepted payments. The ongoing investigation is being closely monitored by relevant authorities.
Political and Law Enforcement Reactions
Songkram Kitlertpairoj, a former adviser to ex-prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, expressed concern over Chaichanok’s absence from the parliamentary hearing. He questioned the administration’s commitment to combating digital crime, noting, “Chaichanok may fear that his revelations could implicate individuals close to him.” Songkram referenced reports suggesting that the initial contact regarding the bribe originated within the minister’s political circle.
Police Lieutenant General Natthasak Chaowanasai, commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, confirmed that investigators expect to make significant progress and potentially conclude the probe within 30 days. The outcome of the investigation is likely to influence ongoing efforts to address online scams and gambling in Thailand.
Broader Implications for Digital Crime Policy
The bribery allegations and subsequent investigation have drawn attention to the challenges faced by Thai authorities in dismantling cybercriminal networks. The case underscores the importance of transparency and inter-agency cooperation in addressing online scams and gambling, issues that have regional and international significance.
As the investigation proceeds, officials and observers are watching closely for further developments, which may have implications for Thailand’s broader digital economy and governance policies. The Digital Economy Minister’s submission of evidence marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to combat cybercrime and uphold public trust in government institutions.
