Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, has initiated a fact-finding investigation following rumors that the South Korean prime minister is set to name seven Thai politicians linked to scams in Cambodia. He emphasized that if any wrongdoing is uncovered, there will be no exceptions, and legal actions will be taken accordingly.

According to Thai News Agency, Anutin stated that he has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and his team to delve into the matter. He reassured the public not to worry and to take necessary steps if their names appear in the investigation. He also clarified that no discussion about the matter took place during his recent conversation with the South Korean president.

Anutin confirmed that an official inquiry has been ordered and that the Thai Embassy in South Korea will also investigate the allegations. His remarks come amid pressure from Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP for the Prachachon Party, calling for an inquiry into Deputy Prime Minister Captain Thammanat Prompao’s alleged ties with Ben Smith. Anutin maintained that any decision regarding Thammanat’s position would depend on the investigation’s findings.

The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s proactive measures against scammers and online crime, noting that 37 arrests were made shortly after the current administration assumed office. He stated that a large-scale meeting focusing on fraudulent activities is scheduled, with plans for each agency to expand on their current efforts.

Anutin acknowledged the global nature of scamming issues and stressed the importance of international cooperation in combating such crimes. He also addressed concerns about using measures similar to those applied to Myanmar, such as cutting internet and oil supplies, to tackle scams linked to Cambodia, indicating that necessary actions are already underway.

The interview concluded with Anutin dismissing further questions about the Prince Holding Group, a network allegedly involved in scams, situated in the Sino-Thai Tower building. He advised reporters not to ask leading questions and reiterated the irrelevance of certain inquiries before leaving for another engagement.