Thai cybercrime chief: No evidence against Ben Smith in Cambodia scam probe
Thailand’s top cybercrime officer insists there is no evidence linking South African financier Benjamin Mauerberger, also known as Ben Smith, to Cambodia’s notorious scam networks. The statement comes as political tensions and a high-profile defamation lawsuit grip Bangkok.
Police: Ben Smith not named in any scam investigation
Police Lieutenant General Surapol Prembut, head of the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD), tells reporters that Ben Smith’s name does not appear in any official complaint or investigation related to scam syndicates. “At this time, there is no evidence connecting Mr. Smith to these criminal networks,” Surapol states.
Despite this, People’s Party MP Rangsiman Rome stands by his explosive allegations that Smith is involved with groups threatening Thailand’s economy. Rangsiman claims his accusations are based on confidential briefings presented to the national security committee.
Ben Smith files 100-million-baht defamation suit
On the same day, Ben Smith hits back, filing a 100-million-baht defamation lawsuit through his lawyer. The case is set for a preliminary hearing at Bangkok’s Criminal Court on November 24. Smith, a technology investor with business interests across Asia and the Middle East, denies all allegations.
His lawyer, Thanadon Suwannarit—who also advises Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow—says the lawsuit is based on factual misrepresentation. Thanadon argues that Rangsiman’s remarks may not be protected by parliamentary immunity, as they were made during a general debate, not a formal inquiry.
Claims of mistaken identity and media confusion
Thanadon suggests the allegations against Smith may stem from erroneous foreign media reports. He says Smith could have been confused with a similarly named individual pursued by the US Securities and Exchange Commission in 2021. “Mr. Smith has never been charged or linked to any fraud investigation,” Thanadon asserts.
Recent checks on Smith’s Singapore-based companies found no legal violations. His businesses reportedly span real estate, aviation, and luxury asset trading, with investments in Dubai and past commercial ties to former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
Scam networks under scrutiny as UN report shocks
Meanwhile, Thai authorities intensify their crackdown on cross-border scams. On Monday, Surapol announces plans to seek Interpol Red Notices for the adult children of a notorious Cambodian casino owner linked to scam compounds. According to a recent UN report, these operations—mainly funded by Chinese mafia groups—could generate revenue equal to 60% of Cambodia’s GDP.
The TCSD confirms that, in cooperation with the Anti-Money Laundering Office, they have frozen assets worth over 1.1 billion baht, including luxury homes, high-end vehicles, and digital currencies. The suspects allegedly used fake or improperly obtained Thai IDs.
Political battle heats up ahead of court showdown
Despite mounting legal pressure, Rangsiman Rome refuses to back down. He vows to present documents and witness testimony in court, arguing, “This lawsuit is an attempt to intimidate whistleblowers.” Rangsiman maintains his statements are grounded in national security briefings.
Interpol Red Notices have now been issued for Ms Phu Cherlin, Mr Kittisak Klongkitkul, and Ms Juri—all believed to be children of Kok An, the Cambodian tycoon. All eyes are on the November 24 hearing, as the legal and political drama continues to unfold.