Bangkok: The lawyer representing Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, known as "Big Jok," has initiated legal proceedings against Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat Panngew, also known as "Big Tao," and the investigative team involved in the gold bribery case linked to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The lawsuit alleges an overreach of investigative authority aimed at targeting "Big Jok."
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sanyaphat Samart, the legal counsel for Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, filed the lawsuit with the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct. The lawsuit seeks to hold Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat Panngew, the Deputy Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Prasong Chalermphan, the Commander of the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Suppression Division, accountable. It also includes the investigators from the NACC involved in the case, where Pol. Gen. Surachet stands accused.
The charges were filed under Section 157 for official misconduct and Section 172 of the Organic Act on Prevention and Suppression of Corruption. The core of the lawsuit revolves around allegations that the accused police officers improperly used their authority to accuse Police General Surachet of directing a subordinate to bribe an NACC member with gold. Such actions, the lawsuit claims, were beyond the legal purview of the investigating officers, as prosecuting NACC committee members falls under the jurisdiction of independent investigators appointed by the Supreme Court's President.
During a press conference, Mr. Sanyapat referenced procedural guidelines established during Police General Sant Sarutanon's tenure as National Police Chief. These guidelines, which pertain to cases involving allegations against NACC members, will be presented as supporting evidence in the court proceedings.