The operation was codenamed “Shadow App’’ and took place in Bangkok and six provinces (Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Chiang Mai, Chaiyaphum and Rayong).

It involved an investigation into Royal Slot 777 Casino, an app that players can download from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app was used for illegal online gambling and was reportedly active for about a year, with several thousand customers.

“The suspects opened 133 bank accounts to transfer the money earned from the application, which offered various online gambling games,” said National Police chief Pol General Suwat Jangyodsuk.

“Officers also confiscated several items as evidence from the suspects’ bases of operation. This includes eight cars, 45 bank passbooks, cash and 54 mobile phones.”

According to the police, the crime ring had set up 10 companies as fronts for its online gambling operation. “The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau will work with the Anti-Money Laundering Office to investigate the companies for possible involvement in an international money-laundering operation,” said Suwat.