Bangkok: The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has issued summonses to five additional witnesses in the ongoing money laundering case associated with members of the Senate. This brings the total number of witnesses to 12, as the investigation seeks to unravel the complex financial trail linked to a suspected network of Senate collusion.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Rawi Aksornsiri, Director of the Criminal Money Laundering Division at the DSI, provided updates regarding the progress of the investigation. The first group of seven witnesses was summoned due to their connections to financial transactions linked to Senate members. These transactions allegedly involved hiring candidates across three provinces: Surat Thani, Lamphun, and Nong Bua Lamphu. The investigation, which includes financial trails related to 24 Senate members, has already seen three witnesses provide statements. However, one witness failed to appear as scheduled, prompting a second summons. Mr. Rawi emphasized that should the witness continue to be non-compliant, further legal measures may be necessary to ensure their cooperation.
Mr. Rawi disclosed that the DSI has recently summoned five additional witnesses to expand the scope of the investigation. These individuals reportedly engaged in financial transactions during the Senate elections, necessitating their clarification of the financial trail. The investigation team is committed to issuing daily summonses and considers the relevance of evidence in determining the number of witnesses required.
Mr. Rawi clarified that the summoning of 12 witnesses does not imply wrongdoing on their part. The witnesses have been invited to explain suspicious financial activities during the Senate election period. The investigation aims to determine whether these transactions were legitimate or part of a broader money laundering scheme.
In response to inquiries about the origins of the transferred funds, Mr. Rawi stated that the investigation would further examine potential links to political party networks or individuals. Should evidence point to involvement by members of the House of Representatives or Senators, they too will be summoned for testimony.
Mr. Rawi acknowledged the possibility that the number of witnesses connected to the financial trail could exceed 100, given the broad scope of the money laundering investigation. He emphasized the importance of a thorough and fair investigation to conclude whether any individuals are implicated.
Discussing the legal implications, Mr. Rawi explained that individuals charged under the Organic Act on the Acquisition of Senators must also address money laundering allegations with the DSI. This dual legal process ensures comprehensive scrutiny of the financial transactions in question.
Regarding the timeline for concluding the investigation, Mr. Rawi expressed confidence that the case would progress within the required timeframe. He assured that the DSI's investigation into the secret society and money laundering case would proceed independently, while the 2018 Organic Act on the Prevention of Corruption would follow its separate legal path.
The investigation continues, with the DSI committed to uncovering the truth behind the financial transactions and ensuring accountability for any illicit activities.