Bangkok:Piyarat Jongthep, a party-list MP from the People's Party, has called on the government to expedite funding for police to conduct DNA testing as part of efforts to dismantle the "Thai Thip Father" gang. This gang is allegedly involved in fraudulent citizenship activities using illicit funds. Piyarat accused the government of exploiting the situation for personal gain by holding press conferences while officers are left to pay for the tests themselves.
According to Thai News Agency, Piyarat discussed the progress of the "Cutting Off the Thai-Thai Father" operation, which is currently in its third phase. This operation is a joint effort between police and administrative authorities to dismantle a scheme that grants Thai citizenship fraudulently to children of Chinese nationals. So far, 24 suspects have been arrested, with the oldest victim of identity theft identified as 27 years old.
Piyarat emphasized that despite continuous follow-ups and inquiries with relevant agencies in the House of Representatives' Committee on Law, Justice, and Human Rights, as well as the Bangkok Metropolitan Council's ad hoc committee, the issue of fraudulent citizenship schemes has persisted for over 30 years, involving tens of thousands of suspected cases. He highlighted a significant obstacle for officials the lack of government funding.
He pointed out that DNA testing, crucial for prosecuting and revoking citizenship, costs about 9,000-10,000 baht per family. With thousands awaiting testing, many investigative teams have been forced to use personal funds to cover costs, raising questions about the government's commitment to national security.
Piyarat urged the government to demonstrate sincerity in protecting national interests and preventing illicit capital influence. He called on the Prime Minister to acknowledge the thousands of high-risk cases awaiting DNA testing and to take immediate action by providing necessary funding.