Bangkok:The Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECSD) has uncovered financial discrepancies involving actress Boom Panadda and a charity foundation she manages. Investigators have detected hundreds of money transfers from Panadda to her husband and noted that funds intended for charitable purposes were instead used for personal expenses. The authorities are contemplating issuing a summons or arrest warrant in connection with these findings.
According to Thai News Agency, Police Major General Tatsaphum Charupraj, Commander of the ECSD, revealed the investigation's progress into the financial operations of Ms. Panadda Wongphudee's foundation. Donors were questioned, and many confirmed awareness of the donation solicitation and the channels used, but the funds were not used as intended, indicating a clear pattern of fraud.
The investigation showed that transfers from Ms. Panadda to her husband were used for personal activities, including the construction of a pool villa in Phuket. Although Ms. Panadda claims deception by her husband, evidence from accountants and auditors suggests otherwise. As the foundation's president, she was responsible for financial management, ensuring funds met objectives, and signing off on financial documents.
Legal proceedings, including potential summonses or arrest warrants, are being expedited. The case, which carries a penalty exceeding five years of imprisonment, is being carefully built to ensure completeness, considering the offense's severity and social impact.
The investigation also involves questioning actress Chompoo Araya A. Hargket about the donation's purpose and contractor Chang Ae regarding the pool villa construction. Police Major General Thas confirmed the misuse of foundation donations by Boom Panadda but denied reports of her using 800 million baht for personal expenses. There is no confirmation of actress Ranee Campen, known as "Bella," meeting with investigators, while Mr. M, a construction contractor, will provide his statement.