6-10-2023 (BANGKOK) Former police chief Sereepisuth Temeeyaves took a significant step on Thursday by submitting a petition to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), in which he accused Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the Police Commission of making an unlawful appointment in the selection of Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol as the new police chief.
Pol Gen Sereepisuth, who leads the Seri Ruam Thai Party, part of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government comprising 11 parties, was joined by his legal representative, Ananchai Chaidet. Ananchai had earlier teased a “super big surprise” set for October 5.
The petition specifically alleges that Mr. Srettha, who serves as the ex-officio chairman of the Police Commission, along with 10 other commission members, appointed Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol without adhering to the seniority rule as mandated by the Police Act.
During the selection process that took place on September 27, four candidates were considered. Pol Gen Torsak was the least senior among the four contenders. The others included Pol Gen Roy Ingkapairote, the most senior; Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, the second-most senior; and Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet.
Despite being the least senior candidate, Pol Gen Torsak was chosen for the top police position. Notably, he is the brother of ACM Satitpong Sukvimol and is known for his rapid ascent through the police ranks, having joined the force at the relatively late age of 33 after pursuing other careers.
The petition holds Mr. Srettha accountable for the appointment, even though he abstained from voting, as he was the one who nominated Pol Gen Torsak for the role.
Ananchai Chaidet has been in the spotlight after announcing that he would be representing Pol Gen Surachate and eight other police officers accused of links to illegal gambling websites.
The lawyer revealed that a “senior individual in the government” contacted him, urging both him and Pol Gen Surachate to drop the case. Pol Gen Surachate, who had previously suggested that the search of his home was tied to internal police force politics, eventually complied. He later extended congratulations to Pol Gen Torsak and sought to clear the air one day after the latter’s appointment.
However, Ananchai maintained his commitment to the case and his determination to uncover the truth. Although he acknowledged that Pol Gen Surachate had not officially retained him as his legal counsel, he emphasized their continuing good relationship. He confirmed that he was still representing the other eight officers.
Ananchai vehemently denied allegations that he had received a 10 million baht payment from Pol Gen Surachate, stating, “Even the eight officers have not paid me a single baht.”
