Police set up special centre to crack down on World Cup gambling

BANGKOK, June 3 (TNA) – Thailand's Metropolitan Police Bureau has set up a special centre to clamp down on World Cup betting, while a winning team lucky draw needs to seek permission from the Interior Ministry.

Metropolitan Police spokesman Pol Gen Piya Uthayo detailed police measures to prevent and crack down on football gambling during the FIFA 2010 World Cup from June 11 to July 11.

He said more gamblers use online systems to contact foreign bookmakers while small local and private bookies are still popular.

The metropolitan police chief has adjusted the plan to increase the agency's efficiency in dealing with online betting and setting up a special centre headed by Deputy Metropolitan Police Chief Maj-Gen
Boonsong Phanich-attra to crack down on football gambling.

Nine metropolitan police divisions were ordered to set up special teams to suppressing football gambling in their areas, the spokesman said.

Private companies in Bangkok which will have sales promotional campaign by offering winning team luck draw for the public must seek permission from the Department of Provincial Administration under
the Interior Ministry and district offices in the provinces.

Violations are punishable by one year in prison or, and a maximum fine of 1,000 baht (US$30.7). (TNA)