Bangkok:Deputy government spokesperson Ms. Ploytale Laksmisangchan clarified recent reports regarding a "fraud involving 1.8 million baht, resulting in 9 million years in prison," confirming that legally, the maximum imprisonment term is 20 years.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ploytale explained that while the offense of fraud under Section 343 of the Criminal Code stipulates imprisonment not exceeding five years, the determination of whether it is a single or multiple offenses depends on the nature of the deception, intent, date, time, and circumstances, rather than the number of transactions. Section 91(2) of the Criminal Code further states that the total imprisonment term for multiple offenses must not exceed twenty years if the most serious offense carries a maximum sentence exceeding three years but not exceeding ten years.
The government warned that illegal fundraising methods could lead to imprisonment under fraud or money laundering charges, with a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Ms. Ploytale emphasized the legal consequences of accepting donations without a license or using the funds for unintended purposes, citing the Fundraising Control Act B.E. 2487 and relevant sections of the Criminal Code.
The Prime Minister has ordered an investigation and regulation of foundations nationwide to ensure transparency and accountability in their operations. This includes scrutiny of donation solicitation methods to prevent misuse. Ms. Ploytalee stressed the importance of foundations operating in accordance with their registered objectives to protect public interest and maintain trust.