Bangkok: Police have confirmed that six suspects involved in a drug trafficking gang have confessed to their involvement with 'Dr. Air.' The investigation's expansion into the alleged use of deceased individuals' identities to purchase drugs falls under the Ministry of Public Health and the FDA's responsibility, as they are the victims who must file a complaint. Authorities remain confident in the evidence, despite 'Dr. Air' contesting the case.
According to Thai News Agency, investigators from the Narcotics Suppression Division 1 have detained the six remaining suspects in the 'Dr. Air' case. Four of these individuals were charged with 'jointly distributing Category 2 psychotropic substances without permission and colluding to commit serious drug-related offenses.' The other two suspects were caught on camera and charged with 'possession of Category 2 psychotropic substances without permission.' They have been transported to the Ratchada Criminal Court for an initial 12-day detention. Investigators have objected to granting bail due to the severity of the charges and concerns over potential flight risks and evidence tampering.
During the detention process, police also took custody of 10 suspects from other cases. Reporters attempted to question the six suspects about their relationship with Dr. Air, their wages, and whether they expressed remorse for their actions. The suspects remained silent and displayed no expressions before being taken to the Ratchada Criminal Court.
Pol. Col. Surapong Chatisut, deputy commander of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau 1, stated that the six suspects provided valuable statements beneficial to the case. Most confessed to the facts, reinforcing confidence in the evidence against the entire gang. Despite Dr. Air's refusal to give a statement, police are not concerned, as substantial evidence has been gathered over the past six months. While the money laundering charge will be pursued later, conspiracy charges already lay the groundwork for such allegations.
The use of deceased individuals' identities to order medicine falls outside the Narcotics Suppression Bureau's purview and is a matter for local investigators, the Ministry of Public Health, and the FDA. These entities must file complaints about the use of false information in official documents at the Nonthaburi Provincial Police Station.
The investigation continues to determine whether other doctors or financiers are involved in the drug trade. Police plan to interview the owners of the 11 clinics searched recently as witnesses. Further investigation will also focus on tracing the drug distribution routes within the community. The offenses attributed to Dr. Air involve separate acts and occasions concerning drug disbursement, which investigators are expected to consider thoroughly.