Bangkok: The Commander of the Crime Suppression Division has clarified the ongoing investigation into the 6 million baht questioned by Mr. Chuwit Kamolvisit. The money is under scrutiny to determine its origins and any possible connections to illegal activities, with an expected resolution within the next month, alongside updates on the case involving Police Lieutenant Sua.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Witthaya Sriprasertphap, the Commander of the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), addressed the situation where Mr. Chuwit Kamolvisit publicly demanded clarity on the 6 million baht during a TV program. Mr. Chuwit questioned whether this sum was linked to the case of Pol. Lt. Col. Sua, a matter under CSD's investigation for the past two years. The CSD has stated that the money remains evidence in a criminal case, requiring further investigation to establish ownership and potential wrongdoing. While Mr. Chuwit claims the money originated from Pol. Lt. Col. Sua, another individual has asserted it was intended as a donation from Mr. Chuwit. So far, 16 testimonies have been recorded, with 90% of the investigation completed. The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) is also involved in the investigation.
Pol. Col. Witthaya explained that the investigation's delay was due to the cash conversion and subsequent donation to two hospitals. Upon learning of the potential criminal link, the hospitals returned the funds, complicating the evidence trail. The 6 million baht currently resides in the evidence account of Division 1, Crime Suppression Division. The AMLO is considering seizing the money, suspecting it may have originated from gambling, a predicate offense for money laundering. The case's completion is anticipated within a month, with the police emphasizing that the clarification is independent of Mr. Chuwit's request to reclaim the money.
Pol. Lt. Col. Witthaya assured that the case has been continuously monitored. Should Mr. Chuwit seek the return of his money, he must apply for a refund, pending the investigation's conclusion.
Regarding the case of Police Lieutenant Sua, the investigation has identified 9 perpetrators. Four have been sentenced, and another was recently extradited from Vietnam. This person is reportedly a close associate of Police Lieutenant Sua. The remaining four, including Police Lieutenant Sua, are being pursued. A red notice has been issued for Police Lieutenant Sua, who has fled the country, though his location remains undisclosed. There is no indication of his return to Thailand, and investigations continue to determine if others are implicated in the case.