Eight Thai Police Officers Dismissed amidst Gambling and Corruption Allegations
In a significant shake-up within the Royal Thai Police, eight officers have been dismissed from their duties due to their alleged involvement with illegal online gambling websites.
Royal Thai Police dismiss officers linked to illegal gambling.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The National Police Chief, Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol, issued the dismissal order on Monday, citing severe disciplinary violations linked to a high-profile criminal case involving money laundering.
Eight Officers Dismissed for Criminal Involvement
The officers in question are reportedly close associates of Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, commonly known as "Big Joke," a former deputy national police chief who has also faced scrutiny for his alleged connection to the gambling scandal. The dismissed officers held various ranks within the police force, ranging from sergeant to commander with the Metropolitan Police Bureau, chiefs of various immigration police departments, and deputy chiefs at multiple police stations.
The case at the center of this controversy is criminal case no. 468/2566, which led to charges of money laundering against individuals associated with the gambling website operated by Suchanun “Minnie” Sucharitchinsri, a prominent figure in Loei province. The Thung Maha Mek Police Station initially handled the investigation, uncovering the involvement of these high-ranking officers in the illicit activities.
Pol Gen Torsak’s order not only removed these officers from their duties but also mandated the formation of an investigation committee to delve deeper into their actions. The investigation aims to determine the extent of their involvement and to hold them accountable for any criminal behavior.
A source familiar with the situation revealed that the officers had been under scrutiny for some time. They were transferred to inactive positions at the Royal Thai Police Operations Centre on September 27, 2023, following an order from the former National Police Chief, Pol Gen Damrongsak Kittiprapas. This order was extended by the current police chief, Pol Gen Torsak, on February 15, 2024, indicating the seriousness of the allegations against them.
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Corruption Allegations Expose Deeper Issues within Royal Thai Police Force
The dismissed officers’ close association with "Big Joke" adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Pol Gen Surachate, who was once a rising star within the police force, has seen his career marred by allegations of corruption and involvement in criminal activities, particularly the Minnie gambling case. His association with the dismissed officers suggests a broader network of corruption within the police force, which the current leadership is now attempting to dismantle.
This incident has raised concerns about the integrity of the Royal Thai Police, highlighting the challenges faced by the force in maintaining discipline and rooting out corruption. The ongoing investigation into these officers' activities will be closely watched as it unfolds, with potential implications for broader efforts to reform the police and restore public trust in law enforcement.
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