On April 27, a Criminal Court in Thailand sentenced Narote Piriya-rangsana, the son of former senator Sangsit Piriya-rangsana, to 132 years and 6 months in prison for money laundering related to an illegal online gambling network. However, due to legal provisions, he will serve no more than 20 years.
On October 31, 2025, the court granted Narote temporary release despite a previously rejected bail request, prompting an investigation into the judge's actions. Narote did not appear for the sentencing, leading the court to issue an arrest warrant for him.
The first defendant in the case is Narayud Narakeu, with charges also filed against seven other individuals, including corporate entities involved.
In addition to money laundering and operating the network, the defendants are accused of advertising its websites and attracting players. According to the investigation, from December 28, 2023, to May 27, 2024, the network managed gambling sites without age verification during registration.
To process payments, the defendants opened legal entities disguised as online stores and connected QR payment systems in banks. Automated payment systems handled transfers ranging from $52,200 to $1.68 million. The investigation revealed that funds were used to purchase land for $223,500, jewelry worth $307,000, and three luxury cars, with money being transferred between accounts to conceal the source.
Narakeu, as the first defendant, received a total sentence of 17 years and 8 months, while the corporate entities involved were fined up to $420,800.