Thammanat Hits Back Over Fraud Boss Allegations
Thailand’s deputy prime minister and agriculture minister, Captain Thammanat Prompao, is fighting back with fury. He announces sweeping legal action against anyone linking him to fugitive call centre scam boss Benjamin Mauerberger.
He warns of both criminal charges and civil lawsuits. The damages? He claims they could reach billions.
The Scandal’s Shadowy Cast
At the heart of the drama is Benjamin Mauerberger, also known as Ben Smith. Reports from Asia Sentinel allege he’s a notorious “fixer” with close ties to ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra.
Sources say Mauerberger met Thaksin several times. He’s also rumoured to have links to Cambodia’s ruling family around Hun Sen. Matichon hints at his involvement in the energy sector and social funds.
These tangled connections turn the case into a political earthquake with global shockwaves.
Parliament Bombshell Ignites Political Firestorm
The scandal explodes when People’s Party MP Rangsiman Rome raises questions in parliament. He demands answers about Thammanat’s alleged ties to Mauerberger.
Photos of the pair and whispers of shady business deals spread like wildfire. The backlash is immediate and fierce.
“Is the fraudster insane? Would someone like me ever mix with a criminal?” Thammanat fires back, visibly angry. He insists his income is legal, his taxes paid, and his finances transparent.
Legal Blitz Unleashed
Thammanat reveals he’s already filed over 100 defamation complaints. More than 270 cases are pending in Phayao province alone.
He accuses Rangsiman of political gamesmanship. Thammanat hints at shadowy backers pulling strings behind the scenes.
“Were you paid to do this job?” he demands, pointing to supposed rivalries in “energy groups.” As for the photos with Mauerberger? “It was just the dramatization of a good deed,” he shrugs.
Warnings for Critics and the Press
Thammanat’s message to critics is chilling. “Don’t play games with me—your mouth is brave, but your legs will shake,” he warns, promising harsh legal consequences.
He also lashes out at the media, accusing them of spreading “fake news.” His threat is clear: “You’ll be in trouble.” Attack him, and expect the full force of the law.
Ready to Defend—But No Apologies
Thammanat says he’s prepared to defend himself before the House Committee on National Security. But he’s unyielding.
“If you dare fight me, be ready to dine in Phayao’s court. Don’t come begging for my forgiveness—I won’t give it,” he declares.
He adds that several business figures are also planning lawsuits tied to the scandal. The legal and political drama is only set to escalate.
Scandal’s Reach Still Unknown
The fallout stretches far beyond Thailand. Media reports claim Mauerberger is a key link between transnational networks and national power.
He’s allegedly connected to the Shinawatras in Thailand and Cambodia’s elite around Hun Sen. Will this scandal shake the balance of power in both countries? The answer remains to be seen.
