Bangkok: "Anutin" is urging the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) not to allow the statute of limitations to expire in the money laundering case involving Natthaporn Toprayoon, related to the Klongchan Cooperative. Natthaporn has been seen at various public locations, including the DSI and the Election Commission. Anutin suggests that if the DSI lacks sufficient resources, officials from the Department of Provincial Administration are ready to assist.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, also the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, addressed the ongoing case against Natthaporn Toprayoon, a former advisor to the Ombudsman. Despite being prosecuted for money laundering, the DSI has yet to send Natthaporn to the prosecutor for indictment. Anutin expressed concern over Natthaporn's legal actions against the Bhumjaithai Party and questioned whether the statute of limitations would expire if the DSI did not act.
Anutin clarified that the Bhumjaithai Party's involvement is unrelated to urging DSI to arrest Natthaporn. However, he noted that Natthaporn had filed to dissolve the party. Today, a document from the prosecutor warned the DSI Director-General to take action against Natthaporn and his associates, as the statute of limitations will expire on June 15. The prosecutor has been requesting action since February 2015. In May, a letter from the prosecutor stressed the urgency of arresting the suspects. Anutin emphasized the legal necessity of taking action to avoid violating Section 157, neglect of duty.
Anutin proposed that if the DSI lacks manpower, the Department of Provincial Administration could support their efforts. He stated that tracking Natthaporn should be straightforward, as he frequently appears in public and media. Anutin urged legal action, asserting that everyone must adhere to the law, expressing sympathy for Natthaporn while emphasizing the importance of following legal procedures.
When questioned about the potential impact on justice if the statute of limitations expires, Anutin assured that it could not expire due to the Attorney General's warning. He revealed that the Ministry of Interior's Permanent Secretary had confirmed the DSI's capability to issue a subpoena before the deadline.
Anutin highlighted that various agencies, including the Ministry of Interior, should have Natthaporn's records, owing to his past roles as an advisor. He expressed disapproval of his appointment in previous administrations, asserting that under his leadership, such appointments were terminated. Anutin reiterated that the primary concern is ensuring that the law is upheld and that the statute of limitations does not lapse.