Illegal oil transport scandal leads to excise director’s suspension in Thailand
A recent internal investigation revealed the involvement of the Excise Department’s Prevention and Suppression Bureau director in a case regarding illegal oil transportation, intercepted by the Highway Police on June 7. The unnamed director’s alleged involvement came to light when he reportedly contacted the Highway Police Department (HPD) in an attempt to secure the release of a detained driver and his tanker, stopped on Phetkasem Road in Prachuap Khiri Khan following suspicions of unlawful oil transport.
The HPD personnel refused to comply with the director’s request. Despite the director’s attempt to speak with Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat Pankaew, the Anti-Corruption Division (ACD) commander, who also holds the position of acting HPD commander, Pol. Maj. Gen Jaroonkiat declined. Eaknithi Nithithanprapas, the director-general, ordered an investigation into the matter of illegal oil transportation, aiming for a resolution within seven days from June 7, reported Bangkok Post.
The inquiry concluded with the suspension of the director on Tuesday for a serious disciplinary violation, as announced by deputy director-general Kriengkrai Pattanaporn. Moreover, the Excise Department requested additional information from the HPD to assist with any potential prosecutions involving department employees related to the illegal oil scandal case.
Among the evidence sought from the HPD is a voice recording by anti-crime activist Atchariya Ruangratanapong that allegedly connects the incident to a high-ranking department officer known as “Yoot”. Both the Finance Ministry and Excise Department will determine the appropriate punishment of those involved in the illegal oil scandal, Kriengkrai added.
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