Bangkok: The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has identified two new suspects in the ongoing “14th Floor Case” and is pushing forward with an expedited investigation. The individuals involved are reported to be high-ranking civil servants and politicians. The NACC has outlined a two-phase investigation process, focusing first on the transfer to the Police General Hospital and secondly on the suspension of sentencing.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Surapong Intarathaworn, Deputy Secretary-General of the NACC and acting Secretary-General, provided updates on the case. He noted that a panel has been established to probe 12 officials allegedly involved in assisting former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during his admission to the Police General Hospital’s 14th floor. The investigation has been expanded following additional petitions, which are being examined in two categories: the 180-day hospital stay and the suspension of the sentence. The NACC is tasked with reconciling any inconsistencies between the verdict and their findings, relying primarily on the court’s ruling.
Mr. Surapong emphasized the panel’s role in investigating any further involvement of politicians and high-ranking officials, particularly concerning the suspension of sentences. When questioned about Thaksin Shinawatra’s potential role among the new defendants, Mr. Surapong clarified that the former prime minister is serving a sentence from a previous case. The panel will determine his liability in this new case, as he was not originally part of the investigation.
Mr. Surapong also addressed queries about the identities of the additional individuals involved, confirming the existence of two complaints during the 180-day medical break and the suspension period. These complaints are under consideration by the investigating committee, which is also examining legal interpretations of the Royal Decree on Amnesty. He expressed confidence in the investigation, asserting that the NACC would act based on factual and legal conclusions.
Discussing the legal implications, Mr. Surapong highlighted the case’s historical significance. He noted that it is rare for the court to independently bring cases for trial, although precedents exist in other court decisions. He views this Supreme Court case as special, attributing its uniqueness to the court’s power to use the inquisitorial system to independently ascertain facts. He reassured that this approach aligns with standard expectations within legal frameworks.