Bangkok: Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP and deputy leader of the Prachachon Party, has voiced strong criticism against the National Police Chief. Rangsiman accused the chief of avoiding crucial issues and not appearing before the National Security Committee to provide necessary explanations.
According to Thai News Agency, Rangsiman highlighted significant flaws within the police system, pointing out that these inadequacies have enabled the rise of corrupt elements within the force. He believes comprehensive police reform has yet to be implemented under the current administration and expressed hope that the next election would prioritize improving the police organization.
Rangsiman addressed Police General Surachet Hakphan, the former deputy national police chief who had submitted a letter to the Security Committee. He noted that the committee held two sessions-one in the morning addressing allegations against the national police chief and another in the afternoon focusing on police appointments linked to corruption cases. These issues are currently under review by the National Anti-Corruption Commission and involve significant political figures.
The meeting aimed to discuss police reform, examining the multifaceted nature of corruption and injustice within the organization. However, the absence of the National Police Chief, who delegated Deputy National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kornchai Klaiklueng to clarify in his place, raised concerns as Kornchai was unavailable to provide further insights. Rangsiman questioned how the Royal Thai Police could be perceived if they failed to offer clarification, leaving the public unable to hold the police accountable.
Rangsiman emphasized the importance of addressing the allegations head-on to prevent further damage to the police organization. He challenged the police to question their superiors about who is truly responsible for the organization's current state, clarifying that the parliamentary mechanisms are being used to hold all parties accountable. He expressed concern that avoiding these issues could imply involvement in illegal activities, questioning whether the police organization is evading the truth.
Mr. Rangsiman also noted a concerning observation that the police organization resembles a large criminal gang. Meanwhile, Police General Surachet expressed some trust issues, stating that while Big Joke, a veteran police officer, may know the organization well, he cannot be trusted entirely. Surachet emphasized the need to listen to all sides and verify information, acknowledging the presence of both corrupt and good officers within the force.
He cited Pol. Maj. Gen. Pavin Pongsirin as an exemplar of integrity within the organization. Surachet believes that systemic issues allowing corrupt officers to gain power must be addressed and expressed skepticism that these changes would occur under the current government. He hopes that the next election will prioritize the police reform agenda, aiming to establish a more effective and trustworthy police organization.