The story of the player substitution at the Arena of Valor tournament during the 2025 Southeast Asian Games continues. In Thailand, 29-year-old Naphat Warasin, known as Tokyogurl, and 23-year-old Chaiyo, who performed under the pseudonym Cheerio, have been arrested. They face up to two years in prison and a fine of approximately $1200.
According to local media, the defendants are charged with conspiracy to obtain and transfer protected credentials, as well as illegal access to computer information protected by security measures. The case is scheduled for consideration on March 17 in the Pathum Wan District Court in Bangkok.
The incident occurred on December 15 during the semi-final match between the Thai and Vietnamese national teams. Organizers suspected a violation when they noticed that Tokyogurl's hand movements did not match the actions of her character in the game. The match was suspended, and a subsequent check revealed that the control was being carried out remotely.
The investigation claims that Tokyogurl gave Cheerio the login and password issued for the tournament. He, being in another location, controlled her character using unauthorized software and remote access technologies.
Earlier, Cheerio publicly admitted to the substitution, and Tokyogurl apologized. Both received a lifetime ban from participating in official competitions.
The President of the Thailand Esports Federation stated that the incident caused serious reputational damage not only to the national team but also to the entire local esports system.