Bangkok: The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is gearing up to establish a dedicated investigation team to scrutinize corruption cases within local government sectors. This initiative includes a probe into the unusual wealth accumulation by an individual referred to as "Director P."
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pattanapong Chanpetchapool, the Assistant Secretary-General of the NACC, outlined the procedures for examining corruption in local government civil service examinations. He disclosed that the NACC office plans to propose the formation of an investigative committee. This committee will convene with relevant parties, including the operational division and the investigative office managing the case, to review case details, examine content, and chart the course of action. Mr. Pattanapong emphasized the swift progression of the investigation, stressing the importance of uncovering the facts.
The investigation will delve into the Terms of Reference (TOR) involved in the local government recruitment and examination process, which implicates several directors-general. Mr. Pattanapong mentioned that the investigation depends on system content or government regulations and will involve examining order documentation and relevant departmental heads. The investigators will present their findings to the NACC for consideration in appointing an investigative committee, based on the investigation's details.
The TOR's specifics have yet to confirm whether it involves rigged specifications, necessitating further investigation, including interviews with witnesses and experts. The NACC Secretary-General has directed that the case file be summarized within one to two weeks before presenting it to the NACC meeting. Subsequently, the process will enter the investigation phase, where the accused will be informed of the charges and allowed to present explanations. Although case files suggest rigged specifications in answer sheet alterations and TOR drafting, multiple issues may be involved. An investigation team is being appointed and will be presented to the NACC meeting for consideration. The NACC Secretary-General has tasked electronic investigations and coordination with the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) for joint deliberation. If a committee is appointed, it indicates sufficient evidence, including material and witness testimony.
The investigation is initially set to last 3-6 months, with charge notification taking approximately one month. Once the investigation concludes and charges are formally filed, the process will follow the usual NACC procedure, leading to a decision on whether to indict.
Addressing potential obstacles, Mr. Pattanapong stated that the NACC is accustomed to handling political cases and that evidence must guide the investigation. He assured the public of the NACC's integrity and trustworthiness, encouraging anyone with information or clues to contact the NACC confidentially. The NACC will announce findings periodically as new evidence emerges.
The investigation into the financial trail of those involved is ongoing, with operational officers reviewing details gradually. The NACC has filed a case against Mr. P., Director of the Strategy and Budget Division of Wichian Buri Municipality, for unusual wealth accumulation and will investigate his financial transactions.
Regarding the Phuket Provincial Permanent Secretary's alleged involvement in the local government examination corruption scandal, the NACC has not yet received an official report. Initial details from the Anti-Corruption Division of the Royal Thai Police indicate arrests have been made, with further announcements expected today. However, the NACC did not participate in today's operation and requires additional details from the Anti-Corruption Division. The NACC Secretary is deciding whether to send a representative to participate in the investigation.