Bangkok:The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has clarified that the assets of the "Good Deeds Foundation" will not be confiscated by the state and will be distributed to donors according to procedure.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Witiyaporn Chantawas, a specialist in financial investigation and deputy spokesperson for AMLO, revealed progress in the investigation into financial transactions and procedures related to the "Doing Good Foundation." These investigations are based on accusations of soliciting donations unlawfully.

Currently, the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECSD) has issued temporary asset seizure orders. Investigators are preparing a seizure report to be submitted to AMLO for further action in accordance with the Prime Minister's Office regulations. During this period, investigators may decide which assets to return or retain as evidence before the list is forwarded to AMLO.

The investigation involves examining over 1.8 million transfers and payments, with an in-depth comparison of bank statements underway. AMLO is also reviewing suspicious transaction reports (STRs). Initial evidence suggests the cases involve public fraud, money laundering, and violations of the Computer Crime Act.

Mr. Witiyaporn addressed the charge of "embezzlement," stating that promoting donations via live-stream meets the criteria of defrauding the public. Embezzlement charges may apply if funds, once properly transferred to the foundation, are misappropriated.

Regarding the AMLO Secretary-General's authority under the anti-money laundering law, Mr. Witiyaporn explained that AMLO must first review the baseline case file from the police. AMLO will use its discretion to issue seizure orders only if complete evidence is found that the police cannot address. Currently, ECSD police have frozen some assets, and AMLO is awaiting the full list to proceed.

If assets are seized and a case reaches the prosecutor, leading to a court order, the assets related to the Good Deeds Foundation will not become state property but will be distributed to compensate donors as victims. AMLO will notify victims to submit evidence of their donations within 90 days, following a legal procedure akin to other public fraud cases.