Bangkok: The Bhumjaithai Party has raised serious concerns regarding a Forex trading scam, questioning the Minister of Justice, Police Lieutenant General Ruttapol Nawarat, about the issue. The scam, which has ensnared numerous victims, promised high returns and employed celebrities to advertise both gold and foreign exchange trading schemes. On June 16th, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), collaborating with other agencies, uncovered the scam and its assets, implicating several individuals, including celebrities and Mr. Pawut Pongwitayaphanu, a list MP from the People's Party.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Boonjong Wongtaitrat, MP for Nakhon Ratchasima from the Bhumjaithai Party, pressed the Minister for details on the progress of evidence collection by the Ministry of Justice, its confidence in prosecuting the perpetrators, and plans for compensating the victims. The Minister of Justice disclosed that the DSI and related agencies have been gathering evidence for over six months following complaints. The case is complex due to the involvement of nominees, digital assets, and multiple layers of companies both domestically and internationally. Nonetheless, relevant agencies are actively working to resolve the issue.
The Minister elaborated that the case is divided into three parts: solicitors, brokers, and payments. Investment solicitors like Professor P, Coach James, JP Global, and Acme solicited investments, and four major brokerage firms were involved. Regarding compensation, the Minister stated that the DSI has accepted the case as a special one and issued summonses to those involved on July 2nd. While initial charges have not been filed, the DSI requires those involved to provide clarification and evidence.
Mr. Boonjong also raised concerns about an MP's involvement, although they are not yet suspects and will meet with the DSI next week. The public is eager to know if funds from the alleged wrongdoing were transferred to support the People's Party and how these funds will be recovered if found involved. The Minister clarified that Mr. Pawut and the People's Party's connection involves a conspiracy with assigned roles in three parts, involving multiple money transfers not linked to the alleged gold trading company.
The Minister further revealed that companies involved were aware of Mr. Pawut's previous executive roles, raising suspicions. The DSI and the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) are expediting the investigation of approximately 80,000 financial transactions. The Minister requested time to investigate whether funds reached the People's Party, while victims will be compensated through a proportional distribution process if the court orders the seizure of assets.
Mr. Boonjong inquired about preventive measures against similar scams, and the Minister explained that recruiters and brokers use enticing portfolios and well-known figures to promote schemes. The Prime Minister has ordered the establishment of a working group to prevent, suppress, and investigate the flow of funds. Efforts are underway to raise awareness and prevent scams, particularly targeting young people. The Ministry of Justice is committed to preventing this problem from recurring.