Bangkok: Police have added another charge of 'banditry' to the 'SorJor Golf' gang in connection with the assault on a police officer in Phawong Subdistrict, Songkhla Province. The suspects are scheduled to appear in court tomorrow, with relatives objecting to bail due to concerns over potential influence.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siradanai, also known as S.J. Golf, ordered his subordinates to attack Pol. Lt. Nisathi Kongthep, a Border Patrol Police officer, during an incident at the Phawong Municipality Election Unit on May 11. This altercation arose after Mr. Siradanai was prohibited from taking photos while voting. Following the incident, Mr. Siradanai surrendered to authorities, accompanied by his father, Mr. Somyot, a Democrat Party MP for Songkhla Province. Six of Mr. Siradanai's subordinates were also apprehended.
The Songkhla Provincial Police Commander announced that an additional charge of banditry has been filed against the seven suspects. Mr. Siradanai faces charges related to being part of a group resisting and obstructing an officer, while his subordinates are charged with using force and weapons to hinder the officer's duties.
The group is undergoing further questioning and will be taken to Songkhla Provincial Court tomorrow. The police have objected to bail, citing safety concerns raised by the relatives of the assaulted officer. During a recent search of seven targeted areas, including Mr. Siradanai's residence, authorities discovered evidence relevant to the case.
Pol. Gen. Sompong Chingduang, Vice President of the Police Association, has also filed an objection to bail, echoing the concerns of the officer's relatives. The Songkhla Provincial Police Commander assured that investigators would oppose bail for the suspects.
Simultaneously, civil society representatives have requested an investigation into the political ethics of 'SAO Golf.' Lawyer Arm Suwanraksa submitted a letter to the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization Council, urging them to propose an urgent meeting to scrutinize the ethics of Mr. Siradanai, aiming to hold him accountable should they secure sufficient votes.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Arsit, stated that he has yet to receive any report concerning demands for the removal of Mr. Siradanai. He is the son of Mr. Somyot, a Democrat Party MP, who previously held various roles in sports and police advisory before entering politics.
Furthermore, online sources revealed that Mr. Siradanai, also known locally as Golf 98, was previously implicated in an online gambling case in 2019. Although he was not arrested, another accomplice faced punishment. Claims regarding his education in Malaysia have been disputed, with sources indicating he was expelled for violence. Despite past allegations, Mr. Siradanai is now pursuing a local political position, though his reputation remains marred by earlier controversies.