Bangkok: An investigation has been initiated into the Royal Thai Police’s budget allocation for the purchase and maintenance of helicopters following multiple crashes, with questions raised about the actual use of the nearly one billion baht budget.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chalat Khamchuang, MP for Roi Et and Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Prevention and Suppression of Corruption, received a formal request from Lawyer Aun Buriram, represented by Mr. Phatthapong Suphakson, to examine the spending practices of the Royal Thai Police Office in light of recent helicopter crashes. The investigation aims to determine whether the allocated budget for helicopter repairs has been properly utilized and if there is any evidence of corruption.
Mr. Chalat emphasized the need for this probe due to the recurring incidents involving police helicopters, despite the annual allocation of repair budgets. The latest crash in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province has intensified scrutiny. The investigation will also address whether the police equipment is complete and if funds have been misallocated. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is already looking into other procurement issues within the Royal Thai Police. A subcommittee will be formed to conduct preliminary inquiries before escalating the matter to the main committee for urgent consideration, ensuring transparency in budget approval processes.
Mr. Phattharapong highlighted that two helicopter crashes in the past one and a half months have raised public concern and led to evidence surfacing on social media, including pilot communications suggesting aircraft unpreparedness and discrepancies in repair contracts. Questions are being asked about whether these incidents are mere accidents or indicative of underlying corruption.
He further pointed out that the maintenance and control of police aircraft fall under the direct supervision of the Police Aviation unit, which reports to the National Police Commissioner. There is a public demand for the Commissioner and senior executives to demonstrate accountability and transparency regarding the maintenance budget, which is intended to ensure the helicopters are operational. Concerns persist over potential future crashes and the resulting loss of life, with calls for the National Police Commissioner to prioritize the safety and welfare of police personnel.