Bangkok: Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat Pankaew, Deputy Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, has spoken openly following "Big Joke's" acknowledgment of charges, emphasizing a straightforward investigation and expressing his commitment to transparency in the crackdown on misconduct among police officers. He vowed to counter any attempts to distort facts and maintained that he would not be swayed by public criticism.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat Pankaew clarified his position after Pol. Gen. Surachet Hakpal, known as "Big Joke," acknowledged charges of defamation by advertising. He stressed that investigators possess comprehensive evidence and are prepared to investigate all allegations. He reassured that the Royal Thai Police do not favor officers involved in misconduct and are ready to prosecute any cases involving distorted information. Charoonkiat downplayed concerns over his recent appointment as Deputy Police Spokesperson, insisting on a transparent disclosure of facts to the public.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Charoonkiat addressed the media at the Central Investigation Bureau headquarters regarding Pol. Gen. Surachet. He mentioned that the National Police Commissioner had authorized a defamation lawsuit against Surachet, with investigators actively gathering evidence. Surachet presented himself and provided information, initially denying the allegations, but was charged after questioning. Though a summons had not been issued, Surachet voluntarily acknowledged the charges.
Charoonkiat also addressed allegations regarding his promotion within the police force, denying any nepotism and clarifying that his career advancements were based on merit and the support of senior officials. Despite being criticized over the "elephant ticket" allegations, he reiterated his commitment to duty and impartiality, working under authority without bias.
Regarding the defamation case, Charoonkiat explained that a clip aired on television portrayed the police as a criminal organization, damaging the Royal Thai Police's reputation. He expressed gratitude to Surachet for highlighting misconduct but emphasized adherence to procedures and regulations.
Charoonkiat called for further collaboration with Surachet and Mr. Atchariya Ruangrattanapong to address police misconduct. He reaffirmed the National Police Chief's commitment to prosecuting officers who violate rules and regulations, highlighting the significance of the Anti-Corruption Division.
On his appointment as deputy police spokesman, Charoonkiat assured that it was not significant and committed to addressing misinformation with evidence. He reiterated the Royal Thai Police's dedication to transparency and truthfulness in public communications.
Charoonkiat acknowledged the presence of both good and bad officers within the Royal Thai Police and expressed a desire to address misconduct. He welcomed additional information from Surachet, stressing the importance of confidentiality and evidence-based action.
The Royal Thai Police's response to Surachet and Atchariya focused on clarifying the incident's facts, verifying information, and pursuing legal action where necessary. Charoonkiat addressed leaked chat conversations, indicating ongoing investigations and cautioning against spreading unverified information.
Charoonkiat emphasized the need to preserve the organization's integrity, promising legal action against baseless accusations. He assured that his appointment as deputy police spokesman poses no concern, as their operations are guided by principles and law, aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability within the Royal Thai Police.
Charoonkiat concluded by inviting Surachet and Atchariya to assist in the crackdown on bad cops, emphasizing cooperation and collective efforts to rectify misconduct within the police force.