Bangkok: Senator Kob has issued a statement criticizing the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for not performing its duties effectively, which has allowed Natthaphon, a suspect in a money laundering case, to avoid prosecution. The senator urged the Election Commission to involve reserve senators in investigating the alleged collusion case, emphasizing that there is no need to delay the selection process for the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) as the law provides the necessary authority.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Kob Ajnakitti, a spokesman for the Senate Committee on Law and Justice, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Chatchawat Saengphet, from the Senate Committee on Independent Organization Affairs, addressed the issue of alleged collusion among senators. Pol. Col. Kob highlighted that the current group of senators was legally constituted according to the constitution and that accusations of collusion damage the legislative branch. He criticized the DSI, established in 2004 to ensure impartial justice, for allegedly using the law as a political tool and failing to take appropriate action against money laundering suspects.
Pol. Col. Kob pointed out that there have been attempts to politicize the issue further, with claims against senators for collusion in elections, potentially damaging their reputation. He also mentioned receiving a letter from the Central Investigation Committee of the Election Commission to acknowledge charges, despite DSI staff trying to overstep their jurisdiction. He emphasized the need for the DSI to expedite the transfer of suspects to the public prosecutor, as delays have allowed suspects to evade arrest.
The senator called for a societal analysis of whether the law has been used appropriately, expressing concern over disrespect for the law and its impact on national security. Regarding the case of Natthaphon, Pol. Col. Kob stated that the decision rests with the DSI and urged the Election Commission to provide complete evidence for fair defense proceedings.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Chatwarat revealed that he had requested the NACC to investigate the DSI's handling of the case, which is currently under consideration. He criticized the DSI for not acting on an arrest warrant issued by the Attorney General and suggested that if the NACC takes further action, it would add to the ongoing investigation. The DSI's inaction has allowed suspects to remain free, raising concerns about the integrity of the justice process.