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Two Thai eSports players have been sentenced to jail for cheating at the SEA Games, in a case that raises serious questions about integrity in competitive gaming.
News18
A Thai court has handed jail sentences to two eSports players after a cheating scandal at the Southeast Asian Games, in a case that has put the spotlight firmly on integrity in competitive gaming.
The Bangkok municipal court sentenced Naphat Warasin, 29, and Kong Sutprom, 23, to three months in detention for their roles in the incident.
What Happened
The controversy dates back to last year’s Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.
Naphat was expelled from the tournament in December after being caught using unauthorised third-party software or hardware modifications during an Arena of Valor match.
Kong, meanwhile, was found to have taken things a step further — attempting to play remotely on Naphat’s account after being given access during a live match.
Authorities later raided their homes and arrested the pair under Thailand’s computer crime laws.
The Court’s Verdict
Initially, both players were handed six-month sentences, but these were reduced to three months due to their cooperation with authorities.
They were also granted bail and fined 24,000 baht (around $740) each.
Under Thai law, sentences of three months or less can be served in a detention facility rather than a full prison term.
The court did not hold back in its criticism, stating the duo had “jeopardised the credibility of the country.”
A Blow To eSports Credibility
eSports has grown rapidly in recent years and was first included in the SEA Games in 2019. By the latest edition, it featured major titles like Arena of Valor, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Free Fire, and FC Online.
This case, however, highlights the growing pains of competitive gaming.
(with AFP inputs)
March 17, 2026, 6:06 PM IST
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