Thailand’s anti-gambling task force, the Centre for the Prevention and Suppression of Illegal Euro 2024 Football Betting, has made significant strides in curbing illegal gambling activities during the UEFA Euro 2024 championship. The operation, which began concurrently with the tournament on June 14, 2024, has resulted in the arrest of 3,863 suspects across the country.
Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Gambling During UEFA Euro 2024: Over 3,800 Arrested
Scope of the Operation
According to assistant national police chief Pol Lt Gen Akradet Pimolsri, the task force’s efforts targeted both offline and online illegal gambling operations. Of the total arrests, 3,017 suspects were apprehended at illegal gambling dens, including 50 alleged bookies and 2,944 alleged gamblers. In addition, 224 local illegal gambling websites were shut down, leading to the arrest of 846 suspects. Among these, 145 were suspected operators of the websites, while 701 were identified as clients and visitors.
Financial Impact
Authorities revealed that the illegal gambling websites had facilitated approximately TBH 2.4 billion in gambling transactions, underscoring the scale of illicit activities intercepted during the operation.
Continued Enforcement and Warnings
In a recent update, the Centre reported a cumulative total of 2,600 arrests related to illegal Euro 2024 betting activities, involving TBH 1.8 billion. The crackdown also resulted in the closure of 142 illegal websites involved in facilitating unauthorized betting.
Legal Implications and Warnings
Business operators and establishments involved in illegal gambling activities have been sternly warned to comply with regulations or face legal consequences. The crackdown underscores Thailand’s commitment to combating illegal gambling and maintaining law and order during major international sporting events.
Conclusion: Upholding Law and Order
Thailand’s aggressive stance against illegal gambling during UEFA Euro 2024 demonstrates proactive law enforcement measures aimed at safeguarding public order and upholding regulatory integrity. The significant number of arrests and closures of illegal gambling websites reflect concerted efforts to deter illicit activities and protect the integrity of sporting events from unauthorized betting practices.
FAQs About Thailand Cracks Down on Illegal Gambling During UEFA Euro 2024: Over 3,800 Arrested
1. What is the Centre for the Prevention and Suppression of Illegal Euro 2024 Football Betting in Thailand?
The Centre is Thailand’s anti-gambling task force specifically established to combat illegal gambling activities associated with the UEFA Euro 2024 football championship.
2. How many suspects were arrested during the operation targeting illegal gambling activities related to UEFA Euro 2024?
A total of 3,863 suspects were arrested across Thailand during the operation. This included arrests at illegal gambling dens and related to the closure of illegal gambling websites.
3. What were the main targets of the operation by the Thai authorities?
The operation targeted both offline locations, such as illegal gambling dens with alleged bookies and gamblers, and online platforms, resulting in the closure of 224 illegal gambling websites.
4. How much money was involved in the illegal gambling activities intercepted by the authorities?
Authorities reported that the illegal gambling websites facilitated approximately TBH 2.4 billion in gambling transactions during the UEFA Euro 2024 period.
5. What consequences do business operators and establishments face for involvement in illegal gambling activities?
Business operators and establishments involved in illegal gambling have been warned to adhere to regulations or face legal action, underscoring Thailand’s stringent enforcement measures during major sporting events.
