Thai man exposes fake degree, seeks legal aid amid threats

A Thai man who recently secured a civil service position discovered his educational qualifications were fake. Seeking help to continue his job, he approached the Public Prosecutor’s Office for Rights Protection. Threats followed his public revelation, and the matter is now headed to court.

The Thai man, 34 year old Sairachon Saenkham, accompanied by legal advisor Piya In-ai, met with the Public Prosecutor’s Office for Rights Protection and Legal Assistance at Khon Kaen Provincial Office. The visit aimed to seek legal help and protection after Sairachon’s educational documents were found to be fake.

Piya stated that they first consulted Dr Itthi Siwannu, the licence holder of a technology college in Nong Ruea, Khon Kaen. After examining Sairachon’s documents, Dr Itthi confirmed they were entirely fake and recommended taking legal action against all involved parties.

Subsequently, Sairachon filed a report at Nong Ruea Police Station. However, the local police advised him to lodge a formal complaint in Pathum Thani, where the educational institution is located. Sairachon then contacted Pratunam Chulalongkorn Police Station in Pathum Thani but the officers there indicated that more evidence was needed to proceed with the case.

Sairachon returned to the Public Prosecutor’s Office for further assistance. Piya highlighted that previous meetings did not result in a direct conversation between Sairachon and Dr Itthi. The prosecutor has now arranged a meeting for both parties to discuss the matter.

The legal team unanimously agrees that Sairachon should not only be protected but also allowed to continue his employment. Additionally, they plan to pursue legal action against all individuals involved in the forgery.

Potential lawsuits

Piya also mentioned receiving a call from someone claiming to be a college consultant, offering to help Sairachon earn a master’s degree and suggesting they could negotiate a monetary settlement. Furthermore, Sairachon has received threats following media coverage of his case, warning of potential lawsuits for damaging the college’s reputation.

“To those making threats, let the courts handle it.”

Sairachon commented that since the story broke, he has been bombarded with threats and has stopped answering calls, letting his advisor handle communication. Despite the intimidation, he remains determined to expose the truth. He has received support from friends and colleagues, strengthening his resolve.

“I will fight for the truth.”

Sairachon believes the issue stems from a group of educators whose actions have jeopardised his future, career, and ability to support his family. The added threats have exacerbated his distress.

Sairachon called on the Office of the Vocational Education Commission, under the Ministry of Education, to investigate the matter thoroughly. He fears that if left unchecked, similar situations could recur and affect many more families. He urged police to take responsibility and offer compensation to those affected by fake educational qualifications.

In the absence of any official support or accountability, Sairachon plans to empower his legal team to pursue justice through the court system, reported KhaoSod.