Bangkok: Supachai Jaisamut, the chairman of the Bhumjaithai Party's legal team, has raised significant concerns about the Department of Special Investigation (DSI)'s handling of a land encroachment case involving a company associated with the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakikosol. Supachai has questioned the DSI's decision to allow the case to approach its statute of limitations while the Ministry continues to engage in new projects.
According to Thai News Agency, Supachai criticized the DSI for its sluggish response to the case, which involves alleged encroachment and unauthorized use of public land. The case is reminiscent of the "Nathaporn Toprayoon 2" incident, wherein delays by the DSI resulted in a last-minute arrest before the expiration of the statute of limitations. The case in question involves a large private company reportedly digging a well on public land in Ubon Ratchathani Province. Despite the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) returning the case file in 2019, it has yet to be filed with the prosecutor six years later.
Supachai revealed that the encroachment covered nearly 17 rai and involved significant breaches of the Forestry Act of 1941, the Land Code, and the Criminal Code. The accused parties include Aiam Isan Tapioca Flour Co., Ltd., Wirasak Wangsuphakikoson, Yalda Wangsuphakikoson, and Sudawan Wangsuphakikosol, all of whom are connected by family ties. Supachai expressed concerns that political influence might be hindering the case's progress, given that a minister in Paethongtarn's government holds shares in the involved company.
Supachai also drew parallels with the past case of Mr. Nattaporn Toprayoon, questioning whether the DSI is allowing political connections to dictate its actions and potentially serve as a tool against political opponents. He called for transparency and progress on the case, urging the DSI not to let it fade away and emphasizing the importance of maintaining public trust in the institution.
The public awaits the DSI's response on how it plans to address the case, with Supachai insisting on accountability and resolution.