Srettha urges AMLO to focus on large-scale drug syndicates

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has instructed the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to prioritize the seizure of assets from major drug networks to disrupt the narcotics trade.

In a meeting on July 18, 2024, with AMLO officials, the Bangkok-born Prime Minister received updates on the agency’s ongoing efforts. AMLO Secretary-General Thepsu Bawornchotdara reported that between 2023 and 2024, the agency had confiscated assets totaling at least 523 million baht linked to drug-related cases.

Among the notable seizures was a significant asset worth approximately 100 million baht, allegedly connected to a drug network operated by Charnchai Khlonglu.

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Other notable seizures included assets worth 48 million baht from a network associated with Myanmar tycoon Tun Min Latt in 2022 and another 37 million baht from businessman Chaiyanat “Tuhao” Kornchayanant.

Prime Minister Srettha emphasized the need for AMLO and related agencies to aggressively target the assets of significant drug networks.

He highlighted that substantial amounts of illicit drugs continue to enter the country and stressed the importance of seizing assets acquired through drug money to combat money laundering effectively.

At 62, the Prime Minister underlined that dismantling the upper echelons of drug trafficking networks is crucial, as these critical figures fund the entire operation.

He called for the swift confiscation of their assets to break down the distribution, trafficking, and sales networks.

PM Srettha also urged AMLO to utilize its legal powers decisively, noting that “people are watching.”

He encouraged the agency to collaborate closely with other organizations, including the Royal Thai Police (RTP), to enhance investigative efforts and asset seizure efficiency.

He also advised AMLO to trace illegal funds from online gambling and call center scams, suggesting that seized assets should be used to compensate scam victims.

Additionally, the Prime Minister recommended that AMLO contribute to developing stricter security measures for financial institutions to better protect customers from fraud.

In a separate engagement, PM Srettha met with Australian Ambassador to Thailand Angela Macdonald to discuss cross-border drug suppression efforts.

According to Bangkok Post, he is also scheduled to meet with US Ambassador to Thailand Robert F. Godec to further discuss narcotics suppression strategies.