Bangkok: Former Thai national team striker, Teeratep Winothai, popularly known as “Leesaw”, has publicly denied any leadership or significant involvement with The Icon Group, a company recently embroiled in controversy. Leesaw asserts that his association with the group was limited to a single transaction made out of compassion, and he has never engaged in selling the company’s products or recruiting members.
According to Thai News Agency, the issue came to light when a social media page shared an old photograph of Leesaw with Boss Paul, a known figure in The Icon Group, welcoming him to the “Icon family”. This image quickly sparked widespread speculation and criticism, suggesting Leesaw’s involvement in the group’s activities. In response, Leesaw clarified his position during a press statement where he was present to provide his statement to investigators, asserting his role as a victim in the situation.
Leesaw explained that his connection to the group began through a familial network, initially discussin
g matters related to his wife’s business which deals with ATK tests. He was later invited to the company’s office, where he was persuaded to purchase food supplement products, specifically collagen, under the impression of helping his sister. He ended up signing bills for products worth over 220,000 baht during a promotional period, although he never physically acquired the products nor attempted to sell them.
Regarding the controversial photo with Boss Paul, Leesaw mentioned that it was taken during his first and only visit to The Icon Group’s office. He described the encounter as a casual greeting and a routine photo opportunity, which he did not anticipate being used for promotional purposes. Leesaw emphasized his casual approach to interactions and his lack of serious engagement with the company’s activities.
Kan Chom Phalang, an official at the Central Investigation Bureau, commented on the broader investigation into The Icon Group, noting the involvement of former executives and the necessity of gathe
ring evidence from high-ranking individuals within the network. He urged those criticizing the group to assist in encouraging these individuals to come forward with information that could potentially mitigate the severity of any legal consequences they might face.