Bangkok: Authorities have dismantled a football influencer network with the arrest of "Waw-Jaruwat," a football expert known for live-streaming match analysis. The influencer, whose real name is Mr. Jaruwat Pribwai, was apprehended for enticing individuals to join a VIP LINE group for gambling activities. He admitted to receiving a monthly payment of 50,000 baht for his involvement.

According to Thai News Agency, the operation was led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Wiwat Khamchamnan, Deputy Commander of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, along with Pol. Col. Rojanasak Naiphongsri, Commander of Division 2, Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau 1. With a search warrant from the Criminal Court, the investigation team searched a condominium on Ratchadaphisek Road, where they arrested Mr. Pribwai and confiscated electronic equipment, including a computer, laptop, and iPad.

The investigation uncovered a TikTok account named 'Jor Luk Nang Waw77 Dao,' which Mr. Pribwai used to present himself as a football pundit. The account featured videos and live streams that analyzed and predicted football match outcomes. After building a substantial following, he would discreetly promote gambling by directing viewers to join a Line group and visit associated gambling websites. These sites, https://ufafat11.com/ and https://member2.ufa747.farm/, offered promotions that encouraged new members to deposit money in exchange for sports-related merchandise.

During the raid, Mr. Pribwai was found resting after a live-stream session covering the World Cup Round of 16 match between the United States and Belgium. Upon questioning, he confessed to being compensated for promoting gambling activities over the past two months. He faces charges of advertising and soliciting others to engage in unauthorized gambling, in violation of the Gambling Act. The case has been handed over to the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau 1 for further legal proceedings.