Thailand’s Supreme Court ruled Bitcoin (BTC) can count as property in a criminal case, finding the digital asset had economic value and could be controlled by its holder.
The case arose after a victim exchanged $50,000 for Bitcoin and sent it to a criminal group. The court’s full bench considered the question in case No. 4929/2569.
The judges cited Bitcoin’s market value and a holder’s ability to dispose of it for cash if a buyer can be found. These characteristics, the court concluded, allow Bitcoin to be treated as property that can be targeted in a criminal offense.
The decision did not recognize Bitcoin as a legal means of payment with the same standing as Thailand’s baht. It addressed the asset’s status as property in the criminal case.
