They are examining an estimated 1 billion baht (approximately $30 million) in donations. Investigators say she siphoned off donations to buy luxury houses.
Former Miss Thailand Panadda “Boom” Wongphudee was arrested in Bangkok this morning over allegations of misappropriating donations made to her charitable foundation.
Police investigate alleged diversion of donations
The investigation centres on accusations that contributions intended for the foundation’s charitable activities were diverted for personal use. Authorities are scrutinising financial transactions, bank accounts and properties associated with Panadda and individuals close to her. Investigators conducted searches at four locations linked to the couple and the foundation. However, investigators have yet to establish that all the assets were acquired using donations made to the foundation. The Anti-Money Laundering Office is also assisting with the investigation. Officers presented the arrest and search warrants before taking her back inside the property to collect further evidence. The police chief had also directed law enforcement agencies across the country to work with administrative authorities and the Anti-Money Laundering Office to investigate foundations and individuals suspected of fraudulent fundraising.
The 50-year-old actress and television presenter, who headed the Do Good Organisation Foundation, faces charges of public fraud, money laundering and alleged violations of Thailand’s Computer Crime Act, according to local news website Khaosod. These included Panadda’s Bangkok residence, a property belonging to Atip in Pathum Thani province, the foundation’s office in Thanyaburi district and another premises in Bangkok’s Bang Khen area. (Also read: 108 flights cancelled in Thailand to avoid 2 lakh sky lanterns from Chiang Mai festival ) Authorities have reportedly examined between 15 and 17 bank accounts and assets worth more than 100 million baht, including properties, vehicles, land and luxury items.
The South China Morning Post called her a “household name” in Thailand and one of the country’s leading philanthropists, whose arrest has shocked many. Panadda was preparing to address reporters alongside her lawyer, Ekkasit Srisang, when police arrived at the residential estate on Friday morning.
The foundation had earlier announced that Panadda’s responsibilities as president were temporarily suspended while the matter was investigated. Officers from Thailand’s Economic Crime Suppression Division took Panadda into custody at around 6.28 am on Friday near her residence in the Bueng Kum district of Bangkok. She was subsequently escorted to the Central Investigation Bureau headquarters for questioning, where journalists had gathered to follow developments in the case. (Also read: California assistant steals $18 million from boss, spends it on Louis Vuitton bags, private jet trips ) Appearing tired and subdued, Panadda greeted reporters with a traditional Thai wai before acknowledging the situation. Panadda rose to prominence after winning the Miss Thailand title in 2000. However, concerns have been growing over public figures and social media influencers using disaster relief campaigns to expand their following and solicit donations without adequate oversight. (Also read: Directors embezzle $6.5M from charity, spend it on Vegas trips, luxury cars ) In response to the controversy, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul ordered a nationwide review of registered foundations.
Her husband, businessman and fitness influencer Atip Anantawan, also known as Got, is being investigated in the case. The arrest was carried out under a warrant issued by the Criminal Court. Atip also appeared before investigators in connection with the case. When questioned about how she had found herself facing the allegations, she did not offer an explanation. Instead, she repeatedly apologised, saying, “I’m sorry, everyone. I’m sorry, everyone. “There is no other word but ‘sorry’. She subsequently established herself in the entertainment industry as an actress and television presenter before becoming widely recognised for her charitable initiatives. Through the Do Good Organisation Foundation, Panadda became a familiar face during Thailand’s recurring floods and other emergencies, frequently visiting affected areas and helping distribute food, water and essential supplies. Her public profile and relief work attracted contributions from ordinary citizens, celebrities and other well-wishers, helping the foundation build a substantial donor base. However, the organisation has now come under scrutiny over allegations of financial irregularities. It also stopped accepting donations through all channels. The controversy has further intensified following reports that relief materials donated for disaster-affected communities — including bottled water, soap and clothing — were found stored in a warehouse instead of reaching those in need. The allegations against Panadda have triggered a wider debate in Thailand about accountability in celebrity-led charitable organisations and the transparency of donation campaigns. Charitable giving holds considerable cultural significance in the predominantly Buddhist country, where donations are often associated with the accumulation of good karma. Celebrity-backed foundations and volunteer groups also play an important role in providing assistance during emergencies.
“I’m willing to enter the legal process,” she told the media. In earlier public statements, Panadda had also expressed regret over disappointing supporters and said she was prepared to face the legal proceedings. I’m sorry for disappointing you, and sorry for making you feel so many bad things,” she had said, while also expressing concern about the impact of the controversy on her two young children. “No individual should be allowed to use these foundations to exploit people for their own benefit through deception, fraud or dishonest dealing,” Anutin said.
