DSI to call former minister for questioning regarding Singapore MoU with Mauerberger

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has announced its intentions to request the appearance of the former Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES), Prasert Jantararuangtong, for questioning regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Singapore that involved the presence of alleged money launderer Ben Smith. This decision follows a statement made by Wisit Wisitsora-at, a former permanent secretary and current chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), who revealed that the MoU was executed under instructions from the ministry’s office. Wisit Wisitsora-at, who was the permanent secretary at the time, claimed he signed the MoU with the approval of the then DES minister, despite having no prior connections to the signatory or the entities involved in establishing the “Thailand International Digital Business and Finance Center” (TIDC) as outlined in the MoU. The MoU was formally signed with the Singapore-based Prime Opportunity Fund VCC while Prasert Jantararuangtong held a ministerial position in the cabinet.

Photographs from the signing ceremony reveal the presence of Benjamin Mauerberger, also known as “Ben Smith,” alongside Capt Thamanat Prompow, who was then serving as the Minister of Agriculture during the Srettha Thavisin administration. The images captured Mr. Prasert participating in photo sessions alongside Capt Thamanat and Narumon Pinyosinwat, Thailand’s trade representative at the time.

In light of Wisit Wisitsora-at’s testimony, investigators are considering summoning both Mr. Prasert and his secretary-general at the time of the MoU signing to provide clarifications on the matter. Subsequently, the current DES minister, Chaichanok Chidchob, directed the annulment of the MoU in November following these revelations.

The situation underscores the evolving nature of the investigation into the MoU signed in Singapore and raises questions regarding the involvement of key government officials in dealings with alleged money launderers. The decision to summon the former minister for questioning demonstrates the seriousness with which authorities are treating the matter and their commitment to uncovering any potential wrongdoing that may have occurred during the signing of the MoU. The cancellation of the MoU by the current DES minister further emphasizes the government’s efforts to address any concerns surrounding the agreement and to uphold transparency and accountability in its operations.

As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the former minister and other officials implicated in the MoU signing will respond to the DSI’s summons and inquiries. The outcome of these investigations will likely shed further light on the circumstances surrounding the execution of the MoU and provide insights into the broader implications of the agreement for Thailand’s digital economy and financial sector.