Bangkok: Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat Pankaew, deputy commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, has disclosed significant progress in the 'Subdue the Naga' operation, targeting a drug corruption scandal at the Veterans Hospital. The operation seeks to apprehend military doctors, nurses, and associates involved in drug fraud. While the implicated doctors have refused to give statements, a female colonel has requested to testify in court. Other suspects, who allegedly purchased drugs, deny the accusations, though evidence points to further operations, with the Comptroller General's Department expected to probe irregular disbursements in a potential second phase.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Somparat and Ms. Suriya were identified as illegal drug wholesalers operating without necessary licenses, sourcing their supplies from the black market. Substantial evidence, including chat logs and phone records, implicates them in illicit activities. Pol. Col. Charoonkiat acknowledged the existence of a pervasive black market for drugs, which some consumers resort to due to unavailability in pharmacies. These black markets and shops benefit mutually, facilitating the sale of such drugs.
Investigations revealed that searched shops had incriminating evidence like financial records and Line chats. Authorities are evaluating this evidence to determine possible charges, including conspiracy and money laundering. Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat emphasized the importance of dismantling the black market drug trade, which poses a significant challenge to law enforcement.
During a recent search operation, some target drugs were not found, highlighting the need for public awareness about black market operations. The current focus remains on the existing network identified by police intelligence, with further investigations promised. Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat stressed that if new individuals are implicated, they will be summoned for questioning, and any evidence of wrongdoing will be pursued rigorously.
Pol. Col. Charoonkiat also noted that despite the PACC's indication of a potential conclusion, investigations will continue to target main beneficiaries of the corrupt scheme. Those deceived into believing their actions were lawful, due to proper documentation, will be scrutinized for intent. The primary goal is to expose and prosecute ethical violations by professionals exploiting their positions.
The investigation has so far spared other group members, pending further scrutiny. Pol. Col. Charoonkiat acknowledged that certain professionals, like the doctor, might have evaded financial traceability. However, evidence suggests their involvement. The nurse responsible for document verification is also under consideration as a potential witness or suspect.
Concerns about bail interference were addressed by Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat, who assured that any intimidation or evidence tampering would result in bail revocation. He clarified that while no larger perpetrator has been identified, the investigation remains focused on individual offenses, sparing the broader organization from undue generalization.
Cooperation from four other suspects, who admitted to being subordinates, has led to their release on bail. Of the eight arrested, seven have been granted bail, with one still seeking collateral.