Bangkok: The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior has revealed the uncovering of a network comprising 10 individuals involved in an exam fraud scheme, prompting action towards forming a committee to investigate serious disciplinary violations.
According to Thai News Agency, the Permanent Secretary has requested a pause until the conclusion of the fact-finding investigation before officially establishing the committee, anticipated within the next 1-2 days. He refrained from commenting on whether the resignation of the Secretary to the Minister of Transport was linked to the conspiracy.
Mr. Arsit Sampantharat, the Permanent Secretary, detailed that the fact-finding committee's recent announcement highlighted corruption in local government recruitment exams, involving score alterations and participation by local government officers, contractors, private individuals, and outsiders. The Ministry of Interior plans to form a disciplinary committee to investigate, while the Central Investigation Bureau is addressing other aspects of the case. Approximately 10 additional individuals linked to the network are under investigation, with an expansion of this probe expected soon.
The disciplinary process involves two cases: an ongoing investigation and a serious one impacting public trust and the ministry's reputation. The Disciplinary and Civil Servant Performance Enhancement Committee has proposed the matter, and a chairman for the investigation committee has been appointed. The serious disciplinary investigation order will be finalized after receiving the fact-finding committee's results, expected within 1-2 days. Suspension from duty is considered for those involved, pending further investigation. The investigation's scope includes potential money laundering and corruption, though specifics are yet to be thoroughly explored.
Mr. Arsit addressed the resignation of the Secretary to the Minister of Transport, expressing uncertainty about its connection to the fraud case. He mentioned that other issues might be involved but could not confirm a link.
Addressing allegations concerning the Terms of Reference and involvement by Directors-General of the Department of Local Administration, Mr. Arsit noted the long-standing nature of the case. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is investigating, with all involved facing criminal charges. The NACC is expediting its investigation, which includes individuals who have resigned, such as Mr. Pichit Thangprom, emphasizing the importance of his testimony. It remains unclear if Mr. Thangprom might serve as a witness in the ongoing probe.
Mr. Worasit Liengprasit, Deputy Minister of Interior, confirmed a retrospective check of 15,000 local government exam candidates, assuring those who passed fairly will be listed post-verification. Any detected irregularities could lead to revocation of appointments. The Central Committee for Local Government Employees has requested a review, postponing appointments scheduled for July 1st pending investigation outcomes.
Srinakharinwirot University (SWU) has urged the Prime Minister to request the NACC release flash drives for comparison. The Department of Local Administration's wage payment to SWU is under consideration, as mentioned by Mr. Siriphan Srikongplee, Deputy Director-General of the DLA and acting Director-General.