Connect with us

Gambling

Thailand’s Big Move Against Illegal Gambling

Published

5 months ago

on

Thailand’s Big Move Against Illegal Gambling

In a significant effort to combat illegal gambling, Thai law enforcement has shut down over 200 websites involved in Euro 2024 soccer betting. This major operation aimed to reduce illegal betting activities linked to the popular soccer tournament. An estimated 2.4 billion baht (approximately $66.3 million) was discovered circulating through these black market platforms.

Widespread Crackdown on Both Land-Based and Online Operations

Starting on June 14, the day Euro 2024 finals began, and concluding on Thursday, this crackdown was led by Pol Lt Gen Akradet Pimolsri, an assistant national police chief. A specialized task force was formed to address soccer betting cases, resulting in the arrest of 3,863 individuals suspected of gambling-related offenses.

Among those apprehended, 3,017 were caught at physical gambling dens, which included 50 alleged bookies and 2,944 alleged gamblers. This underscores the extensive reach of illegal betting. Additionally, law enforcement shut down 224 local gambling websites, capturing 846 suspects in the process. Out of these, 145 were identified as operators of the websites, and 701 were gamblers using these online platforms.

The operation revealed the lucrative nature of illegal gambling, especially during major sporting events like Euro 2024. With 2.4 billion baht in circulation, the crackdown highlighted serious concerns about the proliferation of unlicensed gambling.

Persistent Issues with Black Market Operators

Thanakorn Komkrit, the secretary general of the Stop Gambling Foundation in Thailand, had anticipated a significant rise in soccer betting during Euro 2024. Despite the efforts of the authorities, Komkrit emphasized the ongoing challenges posed by the black market. He noted that the potential profits often outweigh the fear of legal repercussions.

In May, the Ministry of Finance shut down about 6,500 illegal gambling websites, but these actions had limited success. Komkrit pointed out that new outlets quickly fill the void left by banned entities, and even previously shut-down websites can circumvent restrictions and return to the market with a new appearance.

Continuing Vigilance and Commitment

Despite these challenges, Thai law enforcement demonstrated a strong commitment to tackling illegal gambling during Euro 2024. This operation showcased the government’s dedication to reducing the societal impacts of illegal betting. Authorities remain vigilant and are using the lessons learned from this crackdown to prepare for other upcoming high-profile sports events.

The concerted efforts of Thai law enforcement highlight the ongoing battle against illegal gambling, aiming to protect the integrity of sports in the country. With a focus on both land-based and online operations, the authorities are determined to address this issue and curb illegal betting activities effectively.

Legality of Gambling in Thailand and South East Asia

In Thailand, gambling is largely illegal under the Gambling Act of 1935, which prohibits most forms of betting except for the national lottery and horse racing at licensed tracks. The strict regulations are enforced rigorously, with significant penalties for those caught participating in or facilitating illegal gambling activities. Despite these stringent laws, underground gambling remains prevalent, particularly during major sporting events, prompting frequent crackdowns by Thai law enforcement. Online gambling is also banned, but many Thai citizens still access international online casinos, utilizing VPNs and other means to circumvent local restrictions.

The legal landscape for gambling in other South East Asian countries varies significantly. For example, in Singapore, gambling is legal and regulated through the Casino Control Act and the Remote Gambling Act, allowing both physical and online gambling under strict regulatory oversight. Malaysia also permits gambling but only within licensed venues like Genting Highlands, while online gambling remains illegal. Conversely, countries like Indonesia and Brunei adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of gambling, reflecting their strict adherence to Islamic law. Vietnam has recently begun to relax its gambling laws, allowing locals to enter certain casinos under a pilot program, while Cambodia is known for its relatively liberal stance, with a flourishing casino industry, especially in border towns catering to foreign tourists.

 

Mega Dice: Your Ultimate Destination for Exciting Online Gambling

If you’re looking for a thrilling online gambling experience, Mega Dice stands out as a premier choice. With its sleek, user-friendly design, this crypto casino attracts players from all over the world, offering a seamless and enjoyable gaming journey.

International Appeal and Generous Bonuses

Mega Dice has gained international acclaim, appealing to a diverse audience thanks to its vibrant and intuitive interface. The casino’s generous bonuses and promotions, especially the impressive welcome package for new players, create an exciting gaming adventure right from the start.

Exceptional Welcome Package

New players at Mega Dice are greeted with an outstanding bonus package, featuring a 200% match on the first deposit and 50 free spins on the popular game “Wanted Dead or a Wild.” This substantial bonus ensures an exhilarating and rewarding beginning to your gambling experience.

Continuous Rewards and Promotions

In the competitive online casino landscape, Mega Dice sets itself apart with a wide array of bonuses and promotions, making it a top choice for players seeking continuous rewards. The welcome package, which includes a 200% match on the first deposit and 50 free spins, is easy to claim without the need for special codes.

Simple Bonus Claim Process

Claiming the generous welcome bonus at Mega Dice is straightforward. Just create an account and make your first deposit of at least $20 or its cryptocurrency equivalent. The bonus is automatically credited to your account. For instance, a $50 deposit results in a $100 bonus in Bitcoin, while a $100 deposit yields a $200 bonus, with the maximum bonus reaching up to 1 BTC.

Ongoing Promotions and Loyalty Program

The excitement at Mega Dice continues beyond the initial bonus. The casino offers various ongoing promotions and a comprehensive loyalty program to reward its dedicated players. Detailed information on these bonuses and how to unlock them is clearly outlined on the casino’s website.

A Gateway to Top-Tier Casino Entertainment

Starting your gambling adventure with Mega Dice means accessing top-tier casino entertainment and significant rewards. With a straightforward bonus structure and an easy claiming process, Mega Dice invites both seasoned players and newcomers to explore the exciting and potentially lucrative world of online gambling.

Related News

Related Topics:
Continue Reading