Bangkok: The National Police Chief has mandated the prosecution of a senior police officer after he was caught cheating during an examination for Administrative Court judges. The incident has prompted an extensive disciplinary investigation on the grounds of serious misconduct.
According to Thai News Agency, the officer in question is a deputy commander of the Provincial Police Region 8. Reports indicate that Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, the national police chief, was made aware of the situation through social media, which circulated a clip of the officer, holding the rank of Pol. Col., using a cheat sheet during the examination. The officer was subsequently transferred to the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4.
The cheating incident occurred on the afternoon of March 15, 2025, at the Thammasat University Conference Center in the Rangsit area, during the examination for selecting judges for the Administrative Court of First Instance. Upon discovering the misconduct, the administrative court judges contacted the Pathum Thani Provincial Police.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Yutthana Jonkhun and Pol. Col. Athimeth Chaisaranawit from the Khlong Luang Police Station were dispatched to the examination center to meet with the judicial committee. The committee confirmed the facts surrounding the cheating and planned to submit their findings to the Royal Thai Police for further action.
The national police chief has instructed Pol. Lt. Gen. Surapol Prembut to ensure that the Pathum Thani Provincial Police work closely with the Administrative Court Office to conduct a thorough investigation. The aim is to gather evidence and establish the facts to determine any potential legal violations.
In terms of disciplinary measures, the national police chief has ordered immediate action if the officer is found guilty of exam fraud, which is considered a serious offense under the 2022 National Police Act. The chief has suggested possible suspension or resignation from government service, pending the investigation's outcome. Additionally, the investigation will explore the officer's assignment to the ISOC, including the nature of his duties and whether appropriate leave was taken for the examination.
The police spokesman emphasized the importance of taking decisive action in this case to prevent similar incidents in the future. The national police chief underscored that law enforcers involved in fraudulent activities undermine justice, particularly in examinations for crucial roles such as Administrative Court judges. The Royal Thai Police is committed to expediting all necessary actions to address the matter effectively.