Chiang Mai: “Boonsong” reports for the first time after being given a suspended sentence for the rice-pledging corruption case. His son revealed that his father intended to ordain as a monk after his release.
According to Thai News Agency, the latest image of Mr. Boonsong Teriyapirom, former Minister of Commerce, emerged this morning as he reported himself and acknowledged the conditions of his first probation at the Chiang Mai Probation Office. He was accompanied by his son, Mr. Decha Nattawit Teriyapirom, following his release from the Corrections Department on December 2 after receiving a suspended sentence.
Mr. Boonsong appeared wearing a face mask, sunglasses, a black hip brace, and used a cane for support while walking. He was surrounded by three bodyguards who ensured that the media maintained their distance from him.
During the visit, Mr. Decha completed all necessary documentation for the probation officer, a process that lasted approximately 20 minutes before they exited the probation office thro
ugh a rear entrance. Plans to obtain a new ID card for Mr. Boonsong were also mentioned by his son.
When reporters attempted to engage Mr. Boonsong with questions about the local weather, he refrained from responding, only nodding in acknowledgment. Mr. Decha informed the media that they would proceed to acquire a new ID card and emphasized that his father was not available for interviews, requesting privacy from the media.
Regarding the conditions of Mr. Boonsong’s probation, his son explained that he is required to report monthly for one year and must remain within Chiang Mai Province. Should he need to travel to Bangkok for medical treatment related to herniated disc symptoms, he must notify probation officers seven days prior. After the initial year, reporting requirements may be reduced to bi-monthly.
Mr. Decha also highlighted that his father’s mental well-being was stable, noting that he appeared happier and sought solitude for adjustment. Importantly, Mr. Boonsong had expressed a desire to ordain a
s a monk to attain peace of mind after his incarceration.
Mr. Boonsong Teriyapirom, a former Minister of Commerce, was convicted in a 2015 corruption case involving a rice distribution project and sentenced to 48 years in prison, of which he served seven. His recent suspended sentence requires him to wear an EM bracelet and remain on probation at home in Chiang Mai for an additional three years and five months.