Update on the iCon Group Fraud Case Involving Celebrities
Investigation Developments by the Department of Special Investigation
The Bangkok Post reports that the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is currently compiling a list of suspects involved in what has been termed a multi-level marketing fraud. Yuthana Phraedam, the Acting Secretary-General of the DSI, mentioned that the agency is collaborating with the Consumer Protection Board and the Office of Financial Policy to expedite the investigative process.
Latest Findings and Suspect Information
The DSI is meticulously examining the sales data from the iCon Group. An official meeting among investigators is planned to finalize the list of involved individuals, with the Acting Secretary-General asserting that there is ample evidence to support the charges being filed.
Moreover, a spokesperson from the DSI indicated that Withoon Keng-ngan, the attorney for the iCon Group’s CEO, intends to present testimony from 20 witnesses out of approximately 2,400 who are willing to share information with the authorities.
Conditions for the Detained Suspects
Discussing the well-being of the 18 detained individuals, including Min Pechaya, attorney Withoon reported that they are adjusting to life in custody without significant stress, focusing primarily on their families.
The attorney also highlighted the decision to request bail, now set at 3 million baht, after an earlier request for 2 million baht (or $60,000 USD) for three prominent actors was denied.
Scope of the Fraud and Victim Statistics
As of late October, nearly 10,000 complaints had been lodged with national police, revealing that victims collectively suffered financial losses amounting to around 2.41 billion baht (approximately $71.6 million USD) due to the alleged fraudulent activities associated with the iCon Group.
Government Response and Oversight
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has assured the public that stringent measures are being taken in response to the case. She emphasized that the DSI is working closely with the Royal Thai Police (RTP) to ensure a seamless flow of information, thereby minimizing any delays in the unfolding investigation.
Earlier investigations by the Anti-Money Laundering Office and the Central Investigation Bureau revealed numerous discrepancies in the financial documentation of the involved parties, including prominent figures like MC Kan and actress Pechaya Wattanamontree.
Former Thai Member of Korean Girl Group Arrested After 80 Billion Won Fraud and 2 Years on the Run
Financial Transfers Under Scrutiny
In a surprising twist, actress Min Pechaya has been linked to a series of financial transactions totaling 11.39 million baht (approximately $350,000). Reports indicate she received seven transfers valued at 8.54 million baht in 2023 alone, followed by two additional transactions amounting to 2.84 million baht this year suspected to involve fraudulent funds.
For further details, you can check the source provided by K14.
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