by James Morris and Son Nguyen
BANGKOK, THAILAND — Sittra Biabungkerd, a high-profile lawyer in Thailand, was arrested on Thursday on charges of fraud and money laundering after a criminal complaint was filed by a Thai billionaire. The charges stem from an ongoing business dispute involving a €71 million investment.
Biabungkerd, who is one of Thailand’s most recognized legal figures, was detained by the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) after a court issued arrest warrants for both him and his wife, Pathitta Biabungkerd. The couple was arrested on an expressway in Chachoengsao, just outside Bangkok, and taken to CSD headquarters for questioning.
The case gained significant attention after Jatuporn Ubonlert (known as “Madam Oi”), a France-based Thai businesswoman, accused Biabungkerd of defrauding her of ฿71 million (approximately €71 million) in connection with a business transaction. Ubonlert, who claims to have suffered financial losses in the dispute, filed the criminal complaint in October, triggering the investigation by CSD officers.
Biabungkerd, often referred to as “Lawyer Tum,” has been a controversial figure in Thailand’s legal community. Despite his high profile, he has faced criticism and legal challenges in the past. His arrest marks the latest chapter in his career, as he now faces serious criminal charges.
The CSD is currently determining whether the dispute is purely civil or if there are sufficient grounds for criminal prosecution. The arrest follows an earlier incident when Biabungkerd appeared at CSD headquarters attempting to confront the accusations against him.
Police have opposed bail for both Biabungkerd and his wife, emphasizing the gravity of the charges. The investigation is ongoing, with many closely watching the case due to the involvement of high-profile individuals and the large sums of money at stake.
The arrest has sparked widespread media coverage in Thailand, raising questions about the potential impact on Biabungkerd’s reputation and the legal system’s ability to handle cases of high-profile financial fraud.