25-2-2024 (BANGKOK) In a bid to ensure an impartial investigation into the case of Suchanun “Minnie” Sucharitchinsri, the woman accused of running an online gambling network, the national police chief has issued an order for the transfer of eight officers allegedly linked to the suspect. The move is aimed at preventing any potential interference with the ongoing investigation.
Police spokesperson Pol Col Siriwat Deepo announced that on Friday, national police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol signed an order for the immediate transfer of the eight officers to the Royal Thai Police’s central office. They will be replaced by other officers pending a thorough investigation into their alleged involvement.
The officers facing transfer include Pol Maj Gen Namkiat Theerarotjanaphong of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Pol Col Phakphum Phitsamai, Deputy Commander of Investigation of Provincial Police Region 4, and Pol Col Khemarin Pisamai, chief of Chanthaburi immigration police. Others on the list are Pol Col Aris Kuprasertrat, Immigration chief of Chachoengsao, Pol Lt Col Kharit Priyakate, deputy superintendent of Crime Suppression at Phra Samut Chedi station, Pol Sub Lt Chanont Aumthon, Crime Suppression Inspector at Phra Pradaeng station, Pol Sgt Nattawut Watwaew, patrol group commander at the Police Traffic Division, and Pol Sgt Apisit Khonyong, Investigation Division Commander at Muang Chachoengsao station.
The decision to transfer these officers was prompted by reports received by the Royal Thai Police (RTP), alleging that the eight suspects had interfered with the investigation and displayed “inappropriate behaviour” towards officers assisting in the case. The RTP invoked its authority under Sections 63 and 105 of the Royal Thai Police Act, along with other regulations, to reassign these officers to assist with the RTP’s internal affairs.
Simultaneously, the eight officers have formally requested Pol Gen Torsak to transfer the case from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). They argue that they would receive fairer treatment and a more unbiased investigation under the jurisdiction of the DSI.
