MP's husband named in online gambling complaint

Lawyer Noraseth Nanongtoom has filed a complaint with the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau against Zhang Taiyang, husband of Bhumjaithai MP Suchada Zhang Thaensap, over his alleged shareholding in Shuffle, an online gambling platform.

Mr Noraseth, of Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, said cybercrime police have previously arrested several people for gambling on the website, and authorities should investigate not only the gamblers but also those allegedly organising and facilitating the operations.

He said any member of the public can file a criminal complaint in such cases because organising illegal gambling is a public criminal offence. A complainant does not need to be a direct victim for police to initiate legal proceedings.

Along with the complaint, he urged the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) to freeze assets linked to the alleged illegal gambling operation and investigate the financial transactions of everyone involved.

The evidence submitted included documents related to the company's overseas registration, as well as papers concerning Mr Zhang's acquisition of shares.

Mr Noraseth expressed hope that cybercrime police would conduct the investigation promptly and transparently, describing online gambling as a serious social problem.

Regarding speculation that Mr Zhang might have protection from influential or well-connected figures that could obstruct the investigation, the lawyer said everyone is subject to the same laws, and no one should receive special treatment.

Lawyer Noraseth Nanongtoom at the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau on Monday. Supplied photo