Ruttaphon revealed that progress in the case involving two provincial councilors linked to online gambling shows they have fled the country. He stated that he cannot disclose the name of another individual because no arrest warrant has been issued yet. Regarding the 10 parliamentary candidates, they are still under investigation. He affirmed the case is not related to political matters.
On 27 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Police Lieutenant General Ruttaphon Naowarat, Minister of Justice, spoke about the arrest warrants issued for Patanun Chandorn, a member of the Kalasin Provincial Administrative Organization Council (Provincial Councilor Ney), and his wife. Investigations found they have already left the country. Another provincial councilor has also fled abroad. Authorities are currently analyzing data to gather evidence and will proceed with actions against associated network members.
Regarding another individual involved, Police Lieutenant General Ruttaphon said their name cannot be disclosed at this time. He declined to comment on any political party connections, explaining that without an arrest warrant, even if there is evidence, revealing the name could lead to legal action. He emphasized that authorities are making every effort in the investigation.
When asked about the previously mentioned 10 politicians allegedly involved, Police Lieutenant General Ruttaphon said investigations are ongoing and will continue. He gave an example of having searched a provincial councilor's home in Kalasin province, where only a search warrant was issued but no arrest evidence was found. Therefore, no news was released to ensure fairness. He does not want the issue to be viewed as political. In the case of Provincial Councilor Ney, two arrest warrants were requested, but the court was fair—initially denying the warrant due to insufficient evidence, reflecting fairness for all parties involved.