The leader of the investigating team in this case, Deputy National Police Chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, gave a phone interview to the Thai press on Saturday (June 17) to update them on the most recent developments.
“We are currently compiling evidence in order to ask the Thai Courts for arrest warrants and summonses for more than 10 individuals by tomorrow, Sunday (June 18th). They are charged with holding official positions while engaging in criminal activity and extortion. Due to worries about potential flight risks, the full names of these suspects cannot now be released pending inquiry. Added: Big Joke.The issue has drawn a lot of attention on Thai social media and analogies to a case that occurred in Pattaya in February of this year and in which law enforcement officials admitted to taking part in extorting foreign visitors for money after they were seen vaping, which is prohibited in Thailand.
As of the time of publication, a replacement for the Chonburi commander had not yet been formally declared, but it was anticipated.
