Songkla: "Pholpeer" is intensifying efforts against nominee structures linked to illicit investments, identifying 14,000 suspicious companies and probing their funding origins. The temporary closure of a popular pub in Saphan Kwai by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration signals potential illegal activities beyond hygiene concerns.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Interior Minister Pol. Lt. Gen. Peerapong Suwannachawi discussed the crackdown on nominee businesses in Huai Khwang, Bangkok. Authorities have information on suspected nominee companies in specific areas. The Department of Provincial Administration, in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce, is collecting data. Once confirmed as nominees, companies will face further investigation, particularly regarding business licenses. Missing licenses will prompt inspections. Similar operations are planned in other Bangkok areas and central and northern Thailand provinces.
Polpeerapong revealed that 2,314 companies nationwide hold over 5,800 plots of land worth 65 billion baht. The Department of Land will be consulted next week, and another 14,000 companies suspected of being nominees are under further investigation. Addressing potential involvement of government officials, Polpeer mentioned ongoing investigations to identify implicated officials, as seen in the Huai Khwang case.
Regarding the inspection of 577 pubs in Huai Khwang, Polpeer clarified that the area was not specifically targeted. The operation proceeded without knowledge of the responsible police station. The Department of Provincial Administration is committed to taking action if illegal activities are found, emphasizing collective efforts to maintain Bangkok's cleanliness. Coordination with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Commerce, and the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) is crucial to trace share transfers and money trails. Despite challenges, the crackdown continues against shady businesses affecting Thai people.
Addressing the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's order to temporarily close an entertainment venue in Saphan Khwai, Polpeer believed the decision followed the situation in Huai Khwang and media reports. The closure, ostensibly for public health reasons, might involve other issues like building structure and permits. The matter has been referred to the Bangkok Governor. Investigations at a snooker hall, linked to the closed venue, revealed similar operations. More information is expected as investigations advance.