Pol Gen Kitrat Panphet, serving as the acting national police chief, has issued an order to suspend Deputy National Police Chief Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn and four other police officers amidst allegations of involvement in money laundering linked to an online gambling network.
Effective immediately from April 18, the suspension order also encompasses Pol Col Kittichai Sangkhathaworn, Pol Lt Col Krit Pariyaket, Pol Sgt Natthawut Wadwaew, and Pol Sgt Natthanan Chuchak.
Pol Gen Kitrat underscores the adherence to due process and legal procedures in handling the case, affirming the ongoing police investigation.
While assuming the role of acting police chief, Pol Gen Kitrat asserts full authority in the matter.
In his statement, he mentions informing the prime minister of the situation to facilitate the transfer of Pol Gen Surachate from his inactive post at the Office of the Prime Minister back to the Royal Thai Police headquarters, where the disciplinary investigation will proceed.
Pol Gen Kitrat rationalizes the suspension order, citing the potentially prolonged duration of the investigation, during which the accused officers retain the right to appeal.
