BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thai Digital Minister Chaichanok Chidchob claims he was offered a staggering 40 million Baht by call-center crime syndicates to halt investigations into their illegal operations. The explosive case now heads to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for a full probe.
Minister Reports Bribery Attempt
On October 6, Minister Chaichanok personally reported the bribe attempt to authorities. He says a criminal group tried to pay him off to stop the crackdown on call-center gangs and illegal online gambling.
“I could not accept such an offer,” Chaichanok states. “The public deserves honesty and transparency.”
Police and Parliament Take Action
Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Natthasak Chaowanasai confirms the minister’s statement is now under review. “We are determining if the case falls under police or NACC jurisdiction,” he says.
Early findings suggest the bribe offer violates Thailand’s strict anti-corruption laws.
Parliament Committee Backs Minister
The case has reached parliament, where Pheu Thai MP Siam Hathasongkorh, chair of the telecom committee, says, “We find the minister’s claims credible.”
Although Chaichanok was scheduled to appear before the committee, he sent a representative due to urgent duties. Lawmakers plan to summon him again to clarify who made the bribe offer.
Transparent Investigation Promised
CIB chief Natthasak assures, “All evidence will be reviewed before the case goes to the NACC. The process will be transparent and by the book.”
MP Siam stresses the importance of public trust and national security. “We will keep pushing for answers if progress stalls,” he vows.
What Happens Next?
The CIB is set to hand the case to the NACC next week. Meanwhile, the parliamentary committee will call Minister Chaichanok for further questioning to identify those behind the bribe.
With call-center scams on the rise, this case could become one of Thailand’s most significant digital corruption scandals. Will the call-center mafia finally be brought to justice?