Bangkok: Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwphan, Deputy Inspector General of the National Police, has announced the indictment in the gold bribery case, ordering the prosecution of Big Jok and three other individuals. The case involves a 246-baht gold bribe and has been progressing under the scrutiny of the Anti-Corruption Division, which has submitted the case file to the public prosecutor.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong stated that the investigation was assigned by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), with investigators gathering evidence fairly and without bias. Based on the findings, four suspects have been indicted: Pol. Lt. Gen. Surachet Hakparn, Mr. Sombat Thordharm, Mr. Sorapong Wongsuwan, and Mr. Surasit Paekerd. One suspect, Mr. Samart Konkaew, was not indicted. The case is now in the hands of the public prosecutor for further legal proceedings.
The investigation was initially led by Police Colonel Pakphum Phisamai, who accused five individuals. However, further investigation refined the list to four indictments. The authorities have made it clear that the investigation adheres strictly to the evidence and legal procedure, countering any misinformation spread through fake news pages and social media.
The investigation uncovered behaviors that could influence official actions, including legal exercise, complaints, and witness interactions. Police released audio clips as part of the evidence, featuring conversations involving Mr. Samart, Big Jok, and lawyer Ood. These discussions spanned several periods, from before to after the official filing of the case.
The allegations in the case include exploiting legal loopholes, intimidation, fabricating stories, spreading false information online, manipulating witnesses, and using legal technicalities to avoid punishment. The investigation also touches on connections and secret money laundering deals.
Pol. Gen. Trairong emphasized that the audio clip is only part of the evidence and assured that the police will enforce the law strictly. The press conference aimed to address inaccuracies in online discussions and clarify facts related to the case. The evidence will be verified in court proceedings.
In a separate but related matter, the case against Mr. Ekawit from the NACC has been forwarded to the Supreme Court's special investigation committee. This marks the first case against an individual within an independent organization, and it has been sent to Parliament, which in turn involved the Supreme Court for further investigation.
Pol. Gen. Surachet's personal lawyer has filed a defamation lawsuit against Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat Panngew, but Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat stated it is within the defendant's rights. The Central Investigation Bureau team was prepared for such legal actions, having faced multiple lawsuits in connection with their work, allegedly aimed at intimidation and negotiation.
Complaints filed by Pol. Gen. Surachet regarding the handling of the case file have been dismissed, and the process continues according to procedure. Even if the accused group pursues complaints or legal actions, it is their right to do so.
Investigations continue into the figures mentioned in an audio clip, including numbers associated with the purchase of gold. Further scrutiny will be applied to these financial details.