247 gamblers nabbed during first four days of World Cup

BANGKOK, June 15 (TNA) – Bangkok Metropolitan police on Tuesday arrested 247 gamblers with about Bt500,000 (US$15,000) money in circulation during the first four days of World Cup 2010.

Metropolitan police spokesman Pol Maj-Gen Piya Uthayo said 247 gamblers, seven bookmakers and five bet collectors were detained in Bangkok from June 11-14, as part of measures to crack down on football gambling during the FIFA 2010 World Cup from June 11 to July 11.

Police also seized about Bt83,000 ($2,500) cash and betting sheets valued at over Bt430,000 ($13,000).

Meanwhile, police have cooperated with the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology in closing over 200 online gambling websites.

In addition, Metropolitan Police Chief Pol Lt-Gen Santan Chayanont ordered officers from all Bangkok stations to educate students about gambling-related punishment.

Meanwhile, Pol Col Pirapong Wongsaman working on crime investigation added that the number of the arrests each day doubled compared to last four years.

Currently, no children or youths were detained for football gambling, but the authorities are closely monitoring communities and schools.

Thailand's Metropolitan Police Bureau has set up a special centre to clamp down on World Cup betting.

Violations are punishable by one year in prison or, and a maximum fine of 1,000 baht ($30). (TNA)