Bangkok: The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has conducted raids on five locations linked to a company accused of using iris scanning technology to illegally harvest data from 1.2 million Thai citizens.
According to Thai News Agency, the investigation was prompted by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE) and Prime Opportunity Fund VCC Singapore, which was signed in the presence of notable figures, including former DE Minister Mr. Prasert Chantharawongthong. The MOU, initially intended to develop the Thailand Digital Business and Finance Centre (TIDC), was abruptly canceled by DE Minister Chaiyachanok Chidchob after it was discovered to be connected to a global digital money laundering scheme. The swift execution of the MOU within three days, alongside its ties to the unauthorized collection of iris scan data, prompted the DSI to classify it as Special Case No. 148/2568.
The investigation, which focuses on the Worldcoin cryptocurrency exchange scheme, has expanded to include testimony from key individuals such as Mr. Wisit Wisitsora-at, Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and officials from various regulatory bodies. Despite the lack of SEC certification deeming the iris scanning devices illegal under the Digital Asset Business Act, concerns have arisen over potential misuse of the biometric data collected from Thai citizens, including the possibility of cybercrime and identity fraud.
On January 8, 2025, the Special Investigation Unit executed search warrants at five specific locations associated with TIDC entities, namely TIDC Holdings Co., Ltd., TIDC Worldverse Co., Ltd., TIDC Co., Ltd., M Vision Public Company Limited, and a residence in Ladawan Village. The raids uncovered equipment related to iris scanning and data collection, suggesting potential criminal activities and data storage at these sites.
An internal DSI report suggests that TIDC Worldverse Co., Ltd. spearheaded the iris scanning initiative, with other interconnected companies like TIDC Holdings Co., Ltd., TIDC Co., Ltd., and M Vision Public Company Limited playing roles in the installation and operation of the technology. The investigation aims to trace the storage and possible international transfer of the collected iris data to build a comprehensive case.
The search operation also seeks to locate Mr. Opas Cherdphan, a director of TIDC Worldverse Co., Ltd., for questioning. Mr. Opas, who splits his time between Bangkok and Phuket, is believed to have crucial information regarding the project. The DSI's efforts to gather evidence and witness testimonies are ongoing, with the potential for prosecutions if illegal activities are confirmed.