The arrests were carried out by the Cyber Crime Investigation Division (CCID), working with the Special Operations Division and investigative teams from Region 8 Police and Region 4 Police, under Criminal Court arrest warrants.
The suspects were named only as Ms Piyamon, Ms Saichol, Ms Sukanya, Mr Worakorn and Ms Sasipha. They were apprehended at residences in Mueang Phuket District and Mueang Khon Kaen District.
According to CIB officials, the case followed an investigation by CCID Division 2 into an online gambling website illegally offering slot games and baccarat. Financial tracing identified the use of multiple bank accounts opened under company names ‒ described as “company mule accounts” ‒ to receive and transfer funds from gamblers.
Officers said nine bank accounts linked to eight companies in Phuket and Khon Kaen were identified, with financial transactions indicating a turnover exceeding B100mn in only four days. This evidence led to arrest warrants being issued for the company directors believed to be involved.
During the raids, officers seized seven mobile phones, two iPads, a computer, a camera memory card, 10 bank passbooks, company documents, a company seal, land-related documents, as well as items resembling gold jewellery.
The suspects were handed over to investigators at CCID Division 2 for legal proceedings. Initial questioning reportedly led to confessions. Police said the suspects admitted to registering companies and opening bank accounts on behalf of close associates.
Those arrested in Phuket claimed they were told the accounts would support online business operations and help build financial credibility for loan applications, the CIB reported.
The suspects in Khon Kaen said they were persuaded to register companies and open accounts in return for financial compensation or meals.
The CIB further confirmed that four of the five suspects already had outstanding arrest warrants for similar offences.
Legal proceedings are continuing under charges of jointly organising unauthorised electronic gambling and conspiracy to launder money, the CIB confirmed