Bangkok: The House Security Committee is preparing to submit a list of 43 individuals prohibited from entering the country to the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) as part of an ongoing investigation into money laundering activities linked to call center gangs.
According to Thai News Agency, Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP and deputy leader of the People's Party, confirmed that the AMLO has initiated investigations into potential illegal activities by immigrants, with a focus on preventing them from taking over the country. The blacklist, which includes individuals allegedly involved in fraudulent activities, will be submitted to the AMLO for further scrutiny. Rangsiman revealed that Ben Smith, one of the individuals, had applied for citizenship but was denied due to a history of falsifying tax returns.
Rangsiman, who also chairs the House of Representatives' Committee on State Security, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategy and Reform, spoke after a meeting of the State Security Committee. He highlighted ongoing efforts to address money laundering issues in Cambodia tied to call center gangs and scammers operating in Thailand. The committee has been investigating entities such as BIC Group, BIC Bank, and Mr. Yim Liak, with a particular focus on the latter. Despite some progress, Rangsiman stated that the committee is still not fully satisfied with the advancements made.
The meeting also involved various government officials, including representatives from the Ministry of the Interior and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), who provided clarifications on the issue. Although Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul was unable to attend, his representatives were present, as well as members of the Royal Thai Police's Cyber Police unit.
The investigation primarily targets individuals such as Ben Smith, who holds multiple nationalities, and Mr. Kok An, whose permanent residence in Thailand is under review due to his connection to multiple Interpol red notices. Mr. Lyonpat, another individual on the list, has already had his citizenship revoked, while Mr. Yim Liak's assets, previously seized, are no longer under restriction.
The committee is focused on ensuring that the AMLO takes appropriate action to address concerns about illegal capital potentially seizing control of the country. The preparation of the blacklist, which includes individuals and entities, is a significant step in preventing these individuals from entering Thailand and pursuing their alleged activities.
In related matters, the Prince Group case remains under investigation, with limited progress reported. Rangsiman noted a lack of full cooperation from various agencies but expressed hope for more substantial advancements given the seriousness of the issue.