Department of Corrections to Take Action in Secret Room Case

Bangkok: The Department of Corrections is gearing up to suspend and dismiss 20 officials involved in the "secret room under the stairs" case, as evidence has surfaced indicating their escape to Macau. The fact-finding committee, alongside the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and the Institute of Forensic Science, has conducted a thorough inspection of the prison, collecting evidence from the sealed secret room. All collected evidence will be reviewed by the committee, with preliminary findings expected to be announced by November 25-26. According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Col. Anurak Rojananirankit, Deputy Director-General of the DSI, stated that the DSI will question prison officials about various aspects, including paperwork, inmate control, family visits, and financial transactions. The DSI will also scrutinize previously obtained information from the Department of Corrections concerning the 20 officials, as well as two Chinese inmates and two Chinese models. In the event that further invest igation is warranted, the DSI plans to issue summonses for all 20 officials. Additionally, the DSI will coordinate with the Immigration Bureau to check the travel history of Mr. Manop Chomchuen, the former director of the Bangkok Special Prison. Regarding asset concerns, government officials are required to submit their financial accounts to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). The DSI is currently examining any irregularities to determine if the situation falls under Section 157. Should any misconduct be identified, the case will be forwarded to the NACC for further action.