Go Unlimited with Magzter GOLD
Get unlimited access to 10,000+ magazines, newspapers and Premium stories for just
Try GOLD - Free
Thailand failing to curb scam gangs as elite take bribes: Watchdog chief
The Straits Times
|November 21, 2025
'Dark power, connections' behind networks mean only small operators get caught
-
The head of Thailand's Anti-Corruption Organisation (ACT) has warned that the country's crackdown on scam networks and grey businesses is failing because the influential political and bureaucratic elite allegedly receive kickbacks and provide protection.
Dr Mana Nimitmongkol, chairman of the ACT, warned that Thailand continues to fail in its fight against scam syndicates, online gambling networks, grey businesses and money laundering because the country's most powerful figures are allegedly taking bribes and protecting criminal groups.
In a Facebook post on Nov 19, Dr Mana said the "dark power and connections" behind these networks mean the authorities end up catching only small operators, while the masterminds remain untouched.
He cited a growing number of scandals involving ministers, MPs, a former national police chief and more than 200 police officers linked to online gambling, narcotics trafficking, underground businesses and corruption.
This story is from the November 21, 2025 edition of The Straits Times.
Subscribe to Magzter GOLD to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 10,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
MORE STORIES FROM The Straits Times
The Straits Times
185 hit by gastroenteritis symptoms at six E-Bridge pre-schools
A total of 185 people, including 173 pupils, across six preschools of the same brand have developed gastroenteritis symptoms.
2 mins
November 23, 2025
The Straits Times
Trump ends temporary protected status for Somalis in Minnesota
US President Donald Trump on Nov 21 said he was immediately terminating temporary deportation protections for Somalis living in Minnesota, accelerating the end of a programme that began in 1991 under another Republican president.
2 mins
November 23, 2025
The Straits Times
When energy gets 'boring': Oil and gas guru sees into the future of energy markets
He believes reaching net zero in carbon emissions by 2050 is unrealistic, and sees Singapore as a hub for exchanging electricity.
7 mins
November 23, 2025
The Straits Times
Recalling memories of Ah Mah – in fragments of Teochew
The search for a lost dialect isn’t just about culture and communication, but a reconnection to a beloved grandma.
5 mins
November 23, 2025
The Straits Times
POLE FOR 'STRESSED' NORRIS IN WET VEGAS
C'ship leader ahead of Verstappen and Sainz after flying lap in treacherous conditions
3 mins
November 23, 2025
The Straits Times
6 new activities for the school holidays
Here's how to keep the kids engaged this December break
7 mins
November 23, 2025
The Straits Times
Reports of suspected abuse of kids in pre-schools rise in 2024
Investigations into the mishandling of children in Singapore preschools have risen, largely prompted by heightened vigilance and the availability of video evidence over the past year.
5 mins
November 23, 2025
The Straits Times
I love all my five grandchildren. But one brings a special joy
Love recognises uniqueness and takes different forms even in the same family.
3 mins
November 23, 2025
The Straits Times
PIKE BACK IN G1 WINNER'S CIRCLE ON WATCH ME ROCK
Top Perth jockey lands his sixth Railway Stakes for trainers Grant and Alana Williams
3 mins
November 23, 2025
The Straits Times
KA YING RISING IN SIZZLING FORM
RACE 1 (1,200M) - 11 Made For Life debuts for the Mark Newnham stable and has shown enough in both Australian and local trials to suggest he can win first-up. From barrier 4, he maps to land in a sweet spot to give this a shake on debut.
6 mins
November 23, 2025
Listen
Translate
Change font size