The Thailand Esports Federation (TESF) confirmed that Naraphat, known by her in-game nickname “Tokyogurl”, was disqualified on Tuesday, citing a serious violation of technical regulations.

Naraphat was confirmed to have violated the Esports Technical Manual, which prohibits the use of unauthorized third-party software or modification of competition equipment during a match.

The controversy started when suspicions arose online that Naraphat, the team’s marksman, had installed illegal third-party software on the competition hardware, following Thailand’s 0-3 loss to Vietnam in the Arena of Valor match on Monday.

A swift investigation was conducted by the SEA Games technical department when the incident was reported to the organizers. After Naraphat’s cheating trick was exposed, she was imposed the highest penalty: disqualification.

Many of Naraphat’s teammates expressed their disappointment on social media. Rumors had previously circulated among Thai fans during the online selection process that Naraphat might have used someone to play on her behalf through software. However, blatantly cheating on a live stage at the SEA Games proved unacceptable to TESF.

The fallout has been severe. Due to the severity of this scandal, the TESF made the decision to withdraw the entire Thailand Arena of Valor women’s team from the SEA Games, even when they were leading Laos 1-0 in the loser’s bracket final earlier on Tuesday.

Adding to the controversy, Naraphat faced backlash for unsportsmanlike conduct after being caught giving the middle finger on a live broadcast to the camera.

“Fair play is paramount,” the TESF said in an official statement, accepting the organizing committee’s decision. “We will conduct an internal investigation and further tighten ethical and technical standards for athletes to prevent similar incidents from recurring.”

Naraphat’s club, Talon, also agreed with the decision. They also announced the immediate termination of Naraphat’s contract, effective Dec. 16.