21-3-2024 (BANGKOK) National police chief Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol and his deputy Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn have been reassigned to the Prime Minister’s Office, announced Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, aiming to uphold justice and public service.
The decision follows a meeting of the Police Commission chaired by the Prime Minister at the Office of the Royal Thai Police on Thursday morning, subsequent to the transfer of Pol Gen Torsak and Pol Gen Surachate the previous day.
Prime Minister Srettha stressed his opposition to any form of interference, emphasizing the need for the Royal Thai Police to operate with integrity in serving public interests. He underscored the importance of maintaining focus on work rather than being embroiled in issues.
While Pol Gen Torsak and Pol Gen Surachate await investigation by a probe committee, their transfer is aimed at facilitating due process and preventing potential interference, stated the Prime Minister.
He outlined his policies for the police force during the meeting, which were acknowledged by the acting national police chief, Pol Gen Kitrat Panphet.
The Prime Minister directed the police to address issues such as narcotics, loan sharks, influential figures, smuggling, and illegal firearms seriously.
Furthermore, he instructed all parties to refrain from giving interviews regarding the situation between Pol Gen Torsak and Pol Gen Surachate.
In response to queries about objections or repercussions of the transfer order, the Prime Minister asserted the necessity of providing clarity to society on the matter.
Pol Gen Winai Thongsong, a member of the Prime Minister’s probe committee, stated that it remained uncertain whether the investigation would conclude within the stipulated 60 days or before Pol Gen Torsak’s retirement in September.
The committee will investigate allegations concerning bribery linked to gambling websites, a matter of significant concern, assured Pol Gen Winai, emphasizing the impartiality of the committee in resolving the issue.
Earlier, both the national police chief and his deputy garnered attention amidst reports of potential money laundering charges against Pol Gen Surachate in connection with online gambling networks.
Pol Gen Surachate’s questioning of the legitimacy of legal action against him on Sunday raised eyebrows, prompting Pol Gen Torsak to warn of potential consequences if he ignored summonses.
Lawyers representing Pol Gen Surachate highlighted attempts to discredit him due to his potential succession as the national police chief later this year during a press conference on Tuesday.
