Bangkok: Police have issued a red notice for Yimliak and his wife, amid growing controversy surrounding a photograph involving prominent Thai officials and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a Singaporean company. The situation has prompted concerns about potential regulatory violations and the involvement of various high-profile figures.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Rangsiman Rome, a Member of Parliament from the party-list and Deputy Leader of the People's Party, addressed the media following a House Committee meeting. He highlighted several issues, including the lack of formal invitation letters for Captain Thamanat Promphao, Minister Suchart Chomklin, and Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat, who were witnesses in a photograph with Ben Smith during the MOU signing. Mr. Rome emphasized that this absence of documentation was unusual and did not comply with standard procedures.
The MOU in question, between Prime Opportunity Fund VCC Singapore and Thailand's Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, has since been cancelled. An investigative committee has been established to scrutinize the details and identify those involved in any wrongdoing. Prime Opportunity Fund VCC Singapore, which resembles a financial fund, is linked to a cryptocurrency company that allegedly deleted over 1 million iris scan data points, leading to potential fines of up to 5 million baht per ID, with total penalties possibly reaching 5-7 billion baht.
Mr. Rangsiman further revealed that this case is connected to Huione Group, previously raided by the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). The CIB, alongside the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) and Cyber Police, is expanding the investigation to uncover individuals involved in the MOU linked to Prime Opportunity Fund VCC Singapore. The investigation has unveiled a network engaged in illegal activities, including violations of the Securities Exchange Act and the Personal Data Protection Act.
In relation to Mr. Ben Smith, authorities are currently gathering evidence to issue an arrest warrant. Meanwhile, arrest warrants and red notices have already been issued for Mr. Yim Liak and his wife. These measures allow for their immediate arrest if they appear in any country. Should they be found in Cambodia, Thailand has the option to request extradition due to an existing treaty, despite current diplomatic tensions. The extradition mechanism is expected to facilitate their return to Thailand to face legal proceedings.