The Government Lottery Office of Thailand announced it will use a forensic analysis—including fingerprint and DNA examinations–to determine the real winner of a $920,000 jackpot. Charoon Wimon, a retired policeman, won the drawing in November. But Preecha Kraikruan , a teacher, issued a challenge, alleging he had lost the five lottery tickets that actually won first prize in the twice-monthly draw game.
Wimon’s bank account, where he had deposited his award, was frozen. His attorney has accused a Royal Thai Police officer of putting pressure on Wimon to sharing his winnings with Kraikruan in order to close the case.
Lottery officials and the police hope an examination of any fingerprints on the tickets, as well as evidence of Kraikruan’s DNA, will reveal the winner. Results are expected later in the month.
Depending on results, Wimon or Kraikruan could face criminal charges. Currently, police are investigating four other disputed lottery jackpot cases; officials believe some of the cases may be connected.
The lottery is the only legal form of gambling in Thailand, played with pre-printed numeric tickets. The GLO has been considering introducing new products such as player-selected number draws and rollover jackpots.
