Bangkok: The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment has urgently ordered the Pollution Control Department, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, and the Royal Forest Department to explain allegations of high bribery values. The Minister emphasized the ministry's commitment to good governance and transparency and stated that it is prepared to take decisive action if any wrongdoing is found.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, revealed that he has urgently instructed the agencies under his ministry that were mentioned in the news-namely, the Pollution Control Department, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, and the Royal Forest Department-to promptly investigate the facts and prepare detailed reports. This follows the release of information alleging that these government agencies had the "highest average bribe value" in a survey on corruption.
The news report cites a private sector survey that identified the top 10 agencies with the highest average bribe values, comprising: the Pollution Control Department, the Marine Department, the Excise Department, the Revenue Department, the justice system, the Food and Drug Administration, the Department of Highways, the Department of Public Works and Town Planning, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, and the Royal Forest Department.
Mr. Suchart reiterated that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment places great importance on good governance, transparency, and anti-corruption. Any information or complaints regarding the conduct of officials will be thoroughly investigated to build public trust. He also instructed all subordinate agencies to strictly adhere to laws, regulations, and ethical conduct in performing their duties, to fully cooperate in fact-finding investigations, and to report the findings to the Ministry promptly for further action.