Thai authorities have arrested 3,863 suspects and shut down more than 200 gambling websites in a sweeping crackdown on illegal betting during the UEFA Euro 2024 soccer tournament. The month-long operation, timed to coincide with the June 14-July 14 tournament, is aimed at curbing an expected surge in gambling.
More than 200 websites shut down
Thai police confirmed the closure of 224 local gambling websites and the arrest of 846 people associated with these websites. Among those arrested were 145 operators of these illegal platforms and 701 gamblers. According to the Bangkok Post, the funds circulated on these websites exceeded 24 billion baht (about 60.7 million euros).
Arrests targeting brick-and-mortar gambling venues
The crackdown is not limited to online activity. Police also arrested 3,017 people at brick-and-mortar gambling establishments, including 50 suspected bookmakers and 2,944 gamblers. Pol Lt Gen Akradet Pimolsri, Thailand's deputy national police chief, emphasized the wide-ranging impact of the operation. He said the arrests and closures reflected the determination of Thai authorities to combat illegal gambling activities on various platforms.
The anti-gambling operation is not limited to the capital Bangkok. Surat Thani and other regions are also actively participating, targeting potential gambling hotspots in Thailand. Police Maj. Gen. Soempun Sirikong led raids in these areas. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of law enforcement, military and community volunteers working together to combat illegal betting during high-stakes football events.
Protecting financial and public interests
The massive operation showcased the Thai authorities' strong stance against the intersection of sports and illegal gambling. By dismantling these websites, police said they protected the public interest and mitigated the financial impact of unauthorized gambling activities. The crackdown officially ended before the 2024 European Championship final between Spain and England.
Spain won their fourth European Championship title by beating England 2-1 in the Euro 2024 final. With the tournament over, Thai authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining order and preventing illegal gambling to ensure the public focuses on sportsmanship and fair play.
