Chaowalit encore: Fugitive’s frustration takes the spotlight in third video addressing Thailand’s bail system
Fugitive Chaowalit Thongduang, also known as Sia Paeng, has once again emerged, releasing a third video in which he expresses his frustration over the issue of bail in the Thai judicial system.
He questions the criteria set for granting bail in certain cases and why he was the only one who did not receive it. Chaowalit also apologises for the distress caused by his escape and the subsequent incidents.
Chaowalit, who is currently on the run, has been releasing videos explaining his reasons for evading arrest, claiming he was treated unfairly. He made references to certain police officers and prosecutors while describing a confrontation with officials on Banthat Mountain during which more than ten rounds of M79 grenade launchers were fired at him.
Today, Chaowalit released another video, his third, where he focuses on the bail issue. He questions why he was the only one not granted bail while others involved in similar cases were. The video, which is over five minutes long, requests changes to the bail law, reported KhaoSod.
“Hello again, I have another issue to discuss. It’s about bail in court. I am the only one not granted bail. I want to know why others, even those charged with attempted murder of officials, are granted bail.
“Why are they allowed bail but not me? Is it because I have issues with certain state officials? I also want to know how much security money is required for bail. I run a business, I have debts, I have a backhoe, a car repair shop. Some are pressing charges against me for not returning their cars.
“I could not complete the repairs because my business had to close down when I went on the run. I want to ask how much security money is needed. Or if I am not allowed bail at all, just say so. If it is 10 million baht (US$ 286,233) or 100 million baht, if I can afford it, I will pay.
“I am willing to wear an EM (electronic monitoring) bracelet, I have already written that I agree to it. Think about it, is it fair? Do you know they have families? They have to pay for many things. Some businesses have gone bankrupt, and some wives have run away.
“There are many in jail facing drug charges, murder cases, even though they did not commit the crimes. They are not allowed bail, they lose many rights. If they run away, then seize their assets, and let the police chase them.”
Chaowalit further stated that the denial of bail for defendants has severe impacts on some individuals, affecting their work, finances, and families. He urged for a revision of the bail criteria. He wants the system to specify which cases are eligible for bail and which ones are not.
“Please make it clear. If a wartime weapon case does not get bail, then specify it. Just say it, write it down that this case does not get bail because a wartime weapon was used to threaten someone else’s life. Clearly specify drug cases. Make it clear. I’m sorry but this is from the heart. I think everyone should know and be aware of this. I apologise.”
