The iCon Group case continues to unfold as the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) announces additional charges of fraudulent borrowing, also known as a pyramid scheme, against suspects involved. The DSI, in collaboration with the Consumer Protection Board and the Fiscal Policy Office, is gathering evidence to support these new charges.
Initially, 18 suspects were detained and charged with public fraud and computer crimes related to online invitations for potential dealers to join the direct marketing company. Allegations suggest that the focus was on recruiting new dealers and encouraging them to invest in products rather than promoting the products themselves.
The DSI officials, along with consumer protection and fiscal policy representatives, discussed various aspects of the case, including The iCon Group’s business model and product sales. The company’s CEO stated that their primary products were dietary supplements.
Moving forward, the DSI plans to press fraudulent borrowing charges against a list of suspects based on the evidence gathered. Additionally, the CEO’s lawyer intends to bring forward 20 witnesses to provide information to the DSI, with a total of 2,400 witnesses expected to come forward eventually.
The suspects, currently in custody, are reportedly adapting to their new environment. While they miss their families, they are not overly stressed. However, they are seeking bail, with a request for 3 million baht after a previous request for 2 million baht was denied by the Criminal Court, especially by three celebrity suspects.
The case has garnered significant attention, with approximately 10,000 people nationwide filing complaints of losses totaling around 3 billion baht due to their involvement with The iCon Group. As investigations continue, more details are expected to emerge, shedding light on the extent of the alleged pyramid scheme and the impact on those involved.
