Bangkok: The Department of Corrections has taken decisive steps against officials implicated in providing VIP treatment to Chinese prisoners, ordering severe disciplinary action and dismissals. The department emphasized its zero-tolerance policy, stating that "there will be no exceptions for offenders." This development follows allegations of discrimination and human rights violations raised by the National Human Rights Commission.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Corrections disclosed progress in addressing the alleged provision of special services to Chinese inmates at Bangkok Special Prison. In response to these allegations, the Ministry of Justice has instituted a disciplinary investigation committee targeting the prison commander and his personal secretary. Both officials have been suspended from duty to ensure a fair and transparent inquiry. Investigations uncovered that they accepted bribes to overlook disciplinary and criminal offenses related to illegal mobile phone possession among inmates.
Further actions have been initiated against a group of officials accused of accepting bribes to facilitate illegal visits between lawyers and prisoners. These officials are also suspended pending further investigation. The Department of Corrections has collaborated with the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), providing information and evidence to support the criminal case. The DSI has completed its investigation, with the case file now forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for legal proceedings.