In a major crackdown on illegal gambling operations, Thai law enforcement agents have successfully closed more than 200 websites catering to Euro 2024 soccer-related gambling. The operation, aiming to curb the surge in illegal betting activities associated with the wildly popular soccer tournament, uncovered an estimated 2.4 billion baht ($66.3 million) in circulation across black market platforms.
Authorities Targeted Land-Based and Online Operations
The crackdown began on 14 June, coinciding with the start of the Euro 2024 finals, and concluded on Thursday. Pol Lt Gen Akradet Pimolsri, assistant national police chief, spearheaded the initiative, forming a dedicated task force to tackle soccer betting cases. Throughout the operation, authorities apprehended 3,863 individuals suspected of engaging in gambling-related offenses.
Among the arrested, 3,017 were at physical gambling dens. This group included 50 alleged bookies and 2,944 alleged gamblers, highlighting the widespread nature of illegal betting activities. Law enforcement also shut down 224 local gambling websites, leading to the capture of 846 suspects. Of these, 145 were identified as operators of the websites, while 701 were gamblers utilizing the online platforms.
The substantial sum of 2.4 billion baht found in circulation across these black market platforms underscores the lucrative nature of illegal gambling operations in Thailand, particularly during major sporting events like Euro 2024. The crackdown addresses significant concerns regarding the proliferation of unlicensed gambling during the tournament.
Black Market Operators Remain a Pressing Concern
Thanakorn Komkrit, secretary general of the Stop Gambling Foundation in Thailand, had previously predicted a notable increase in the number of individuals betting on soccer during Euro 2024. Komkrit highlighted the ongoing challenge posed by the black market despite concerted efforts by authorities. as the potential profits were often sufficient to overcome the fear of legal action.
May saw the Ministry of Finance shut down approximately 6,500 illegal gambling websites, but these efforts achieved limited success. Komkrit warned that the issue persists as new outlets emerge, filling the void left by the banned entities. Furthermore, even previously shut-down websites can easily circumvent restrictions and return to the market with a fresh coat of paint.
Despite ongoing challenges, Thai law enforcement acquitted itself reasonably well during Euro 2024, highlighting the government’s commitment to tackling illegal gambling and reducing its societal impacts. Authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to curb illegal betting activities and protect the integrity of sports in Thailand and are ready to use the lessons learned during Euro 2024 to prepare for other upcoming high-profile sports events.