Bangkok, Thailand – Prominent lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd and his wife, Pathitta Biabungkerd, were arrested by Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers on Thursday morning while driving on a highway east of Bangkok. The couple faces charges of fraud and money laundering in connection with allegations from a billionaire who claims she lost 71 million baht in a supposed online lottery scheme.
The arrest took place in Chachoengsao’s Phanom Sarakham district, where the couple was reportedly attempting to flee to Cambodia in their Porsche Cayenne. Police intervened, suspecting an escape attempt.
Sittra Biabungkerd, a high-profile attorney, and his wife have denied all charges. Police are opposing their release on bail, citing the seriousness of the case.
Earlier in the week, Sittra presented himself to the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) to address accusations from Jatuporn “Madame Oy” Ubonlert, a 58-year-old Thai woman who alleges that Sittra deceived her into transferring 71 million baht under the guise of investing in an online lottery project. Sittra, however, claimed the money was a gift. Madame Oy, who reportedly won a EuroMillions jackpot, resides in France with her husband.