Bangkok: The Commissioner of the Crime Suppression Division has confirmed that actions are being taken based on evidence presented by the Election Commission in relation to charges against citizens and the media.
According to Thai News Agency, the investigation is ongoing, with witness statements and evidence being gathered. The Election Commission members are scheduled to provide further testimony on March 5th. The Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau stressed that the focus is on evidence and facts, with the intent behind the actions being a primary consideration. He assured that reputation concerns or external pressures do not influence the investigation.
Police Lieutenant General Nattasak Chaowanasai, Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, outlined the progress in the case involving a complaint filed by the Election Commission against a citizen on February 25th. The complaint alleged obstruction of official duties due to photographs taken during voting in the Khan Na Yao district that compromised privacy. Lieutenant General Chaowanasai stated that further questioning with the Election Commission is scheduled for March 5th, where additional evidence will be presented. He highlighted that all parties involved must be questioned, and evidence must be gathered from both the accuser and the accused to determine the specifics of the charges.
When questioned about the evidence provided by the Election Commission, Police Lieutenant General Nattasak mentioned that initial evidence is based on images from news reports taken inside polling booths, with detailed evidence contained in the case file. He emphasized that the investigation will focus on facts, and the intent of the accused will be a crucial factor in deciding whether to proceed with charges.
In response to inquiries about the possibility of not prosecuting, Pol. Lt. Gen. Nattasak stated that decisions will be based on the sufficiency of evidence. If the initial report lacks adequate evidence, there could be a decision not to prosecute. He reiterated that the investigation is still in its early stages, requiring a thorough review and evidence gathering.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Nattasak assured that no external pressure influences the Central Investigation Bureau's actions. He reassured the public and the media that the investigation is based on evidence and facts, and reputation concerns do not impede their operations. He reflected on past cases, noting that while some were dismissed by the court, valuable lessons were learned from each situation.