Former Thailand police chief Torsak Sukvimol, known as “Big Tor”, faces accusations of laundering money tied to an online gambling network called “BNK Master”. This development was reported by the [Bangkok Post on December 17](https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2921392/graft-probe-into-ex-police-chiefs-alleged-income-from-online-gambling).
Torsak’s former rival, Surachate Hakparn, or “Big Joke”, has also been implicated in similar accusations, although he has not been formally charged.
## Allegations Emerged in 2023
An investigation was launched on December 16 after months of speculation about misconduct within the Royal Thai Police (RTP) and internal conflicts. Last year, both Torsak and Surachate were potential candidates for the national chief position. However, Surachate’s candidacy faltered due to accusations of money laundering linked to illegal online gambling in Thailand.
In September 2023, as reported by the [Associated Press](https://apnews.com/article/thailand-police-illegal-online-gambling-ring-bangkok-9c8a5887823e4cf30edba5045527e846), authorities searched Surachate’s Bangkok residence for evidence. Though the investigation stalled, Surachate did not secure the top job, which went to Torsak. Surachate later claimed the search, named Operation Cleaning Day, was a targeted smear tactic.
Earlier in the year, former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin temporarily suspended both Torsak and Surachate, assigning them to inactive roles before forming a committee to address escalating tensions in the RTP. Both were eventually reinstated. In October, Torsak stepped down, succeeded by Kitrat Panphet, the selection of current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) believes it can move forward [with corruption proceedings against Torsak](https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2921392/graft-probe-into-ex-police-chiefs-alleged-income-from-online-gambling) but requires additional evidence to formally charge Surachate.
## Srettha Exonerated in Appointment Process
Additionally, the NACC has cleared Srettha of any wrongdoing regarding Torsak’s appointment. Surachate accused the former prime minister of violating the RTP Act by selecting Big Tor over himself. According to [The Thaiger](https://thethaiger.com/news/national/srettha-cleared-in-police-chief-appointment-scandal), NACC spokesperson Saroj Phuengramphan stated that the commission “found no evidence of misconduct or improper influence during the selection process”.
Srettha was [removed from office in August](https://igamingbusiness.com/casino/thai-prime-minister-ousted-for-ethics-breach/) following the appointment of a former convict, Pichit Chuenban, to a cabinet position. Pichit had a prior conviction for attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials.