BANGKOK: The investigation into The iCon Group, a direct selling business involved in health supplements, has shown significant progress with the involvement of multiple government agencies, revealed Ms. Jiraporn Sindhuphrai, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office. Currently, the case has amassed over 500 complaints, with reported damages amounting to 118 million baht.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Jiraporn highlighted the police’s effective handling of the ongoing investigation and the Consumer Protection Board’s (CPB) active participation to expedite the process. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is considering the case for special designation due to the number of victims and the magnitude of reported financial damages, which qualify it under the special case criteria. The decision, however, will ultimately rest with the DSI.
Ms. Jiraporn further explained that victims do not need to travel to Bangkok to file their complaints; they can do so at local police stations or through the Royal
Thai Police website. This measure ensures easier access for victims from various provinces, streamlining the complaint process.
The role of celebrities in promoting The iCon products has also come under scrutiny. Despite celebrities denying management involvement, insisting on adherence to scripted promotions, Ms. Jiraporn emphasized that they must still undergo the legal process. The investigation into these claims is ongoing, and if substantiated, could lead to broader charges.
Amidst the controversy, the CPB is also facing internal scrutiny over allegations of bribery among its officials. Ms. Jiraporn assured that an external committee would be appointed to ensure a transparent investigation, with expectations to establish this by October 14.
The CPB is set to review and possibly revise outdated laws governing direct sales businesses to increase proactive inspections and prevent future victimization. This follows an increase in complaints against such businesses, underscoring the need for more stringent
regulatory measures.
Ms. Jiraporn also addressed the issue of a past award given to The Icon Company by the CPB during the COVID-19 pandemic for philanthropic contributions, which is now under review to determine if it was misused to mislead the public regarding the company’s business integrity.
Efforts to reach Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra for comment were redirected to Ms. Jiraporn, who provided the updates.