19-5-2024 (BANGKOK) The Thai Department of Corrections has ardently defended the professionalism of its efforts to resuscitate late activist Netiporn “Boong” Sanesangkhom, following allegations from a human rights lawyer that an endotracheal tube was misplaced during the procedure.
The department’s assertions came in the wake of an emotional demand from Netiporn’s relatives and close friends for a swift autopsy report and a transparent investigation into the 28-year-old’s death. This occurred during a funeral rite attended by the justice minister on Saturday, where they also rejected a wreath offered by the department.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Department of Corrections maintained that professionals at the Medical Correctional Institution carried out the resuscitation attempts on Tuesday using standard equipment and following normal protocols.
According to the department, doctors inserted an endotracheal tube, performed cardiac massage, and administered medications to stimulate the heart and blood pressure, adhering to advanced life-saving techniques.
Furthermore, the statement claimed that the department’s medical personnel provided continuous treatment until Netiporn reached Thammasat University Hospital. It also pledged to provide her medical treatment records to her relatives once its office reopens.
However, on Saturday, Kritsadang Nutcharus, a lawyer from Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, alleged that Netiporn’s autopsy at Thammasat University Hospital indicated that the endotracheal tube had been inserted into her oesophagus, as her digestive tract was filled with air.
Nutcharus also criticized the Department of Corrections for failing to release its treatment records for Netiporn, as well as CCTV footage during the resuscitation attempts and the five days preceding her death, as requested.
During the funeral rite for Netiporn at a Buddhist temple in Lat Krabang district, Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong was in attendance. However, in an emotional display, Netiporn’s close friends and relatives demanded that authorities release facts concerning her death and those of other political detainees. They also rejected the wreath offered by the minister as he was leaving the temple.
Netiporn had been incarcerated at the Central Women’s Correctional Institution in Chatuchak district since January 26, after her bail was revoked in connection with a charge of lese-majeste.
