Bangkok: Interior Ministry spokesman Bhumtham revealed that "Big Tao" has reported progress on the Wat Phra Bat Nam Phu case to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO). He stated that he cannot yet say whether money laundering has occurred, pending a clear statement from the police. Regarding requests for fairness regarding promotions, appointments, and transfers of police officers, the relevant agencies will review the regulations and rules. He confirmed that he has the right to file a complaint if he is not treated fairly.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, addressed the report by Police Major General Charoonkiat Pankaew, Deputy Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, on the progress of the Wat Phra Bat Nam Phu case. He stated that additional evidence had been discovered, and that an investigation would be launched. Once the details are confirmed, a statement will be issued by relevant agencies, such as the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), and the police.
Regarding the request for the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) to investigate, does this mean there's money laundering involved? Mr. Phumtham said, "We can't say for sure. We need to investigate and determine the facts. Whether it will take a long time depends on the case. We have to be careful. We can't just assume what we see. We have to determine whether it's legal or illegal. It depends on the person handling the case. It's difficult to answer that."
Regarding Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat's request for fairness in the 2025 police officer transfer and appointment process, which also saw Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat being promoted via fast-track from Deputy Commander of the Highway Police to Commander of the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Division (ACD), will this be a condition for the committee not to appoint him? Mr. Phumtham stated that relevant parties must consider his background, without going into detail. He only acknowledged the complaints, which were clearly submitted in writing, and considered them. He emphasized that relevant parties will be allowed to consider the background and any misunderstandings.
When asked if Police Major General Charoonkiat stated that he was a hard worker and had achieved results in every case, Mr. Phumtham admitted that he was a hard worker. Judging from his current case management, he saw that he had been working on various cases to ensure clarity. He added that he would have to review the regulations and rules to see how they were implemented. He would like to keep this an internal matter for the relevant committee to review to ensure fairness. Anyone who feels they have been treated unfairly has the right to file a complaint. He added that the details need to be reviewed.