Bangkok: “Shrimp General,” a former commander of the Shrimp Army, participated in the Department of Corrections’ Anti-Corruption Week by delivering a lecture and addressing key ethical questions such as “not killing your brother, not suing your boss, not selling out your friends.” Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Department of Corrections has disclosed an ongoing investigation into the former Special Prison Commander and his associates.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Col. Prawut Wongsinil, Director-General of the Department of Corrections, led the event to promote anti-corruption measures during International Anti-Corruption Week. He emphasized the importance of integrity among Department officials, who collectively displayed the “crossed hands” symbol as a gesture of their commitment to combating corruption. Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang, Advisor to the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army and former Commander of the Second Army Region, was one of the notable speakers at the event.
In light of reports alleging that Chinese inmates paid bribes for special privileges in a secret VVIP room, Pol. Lt. Col. Prawut noted the challenges civil servants face in maintaining ethical conduct in restrictive environments like prisons. He stressed the importance of preventive measures over prosecution, although he confirmed that officials involved in corruption would face consequences. The investigation involves the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and other agencies, with the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) currently leading the inquiry.
Concerns have been raised about the impact of former Bangkok Special Prison Commander Mr. Manop Chomchuen’s reported travel abroad on the DSI’s legal proceedings. Pol. Lt. Col. Prawut stated that the DSI and NACC are responsible for legal matters, and the Department of Corrections is awaiting updates on the disciplinary investigation.
During a Q and A session, Lt. Gen. Boonsin, also known as “Mae Thap Kung,” responded to a query about the phrase “Don’t kill your brother, don’t tell your boss, don’t sell out your friends.” He emphasized that while these words are common in military and police academies, the focus should be on the actions of superiors and subordinates to prevent organizational downfall.
A senior source at the DSI revealed progress in the investigation into the secret VVIP room case. The investigation team is questioning all involved parties, including the former prison commander, and is analyzing Mr. Manop’s financial history and connections. The DSI is also reviewing evidence and insists that Mr. Manop’s absence will not impede the investigation.
Regarding Mr. Manop’s complaint to the NACC alleging harassment and connections with high-ranking officials, the DSI is yet to see the details, but will consider it if forwarded. The DSI has requested information from the Department of Corrections and is awaiting a report from the working group, although officer transfers have caused delays. The Department of Corrections has been cooperative, and a preliminary report will be submitted to the DSI Director-General once available.