Thai military faces renewed bribery allegations involving US firm

Allegations of transnational bribery involving the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) have resurfaced, prompting responses from top officials. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai acknowledged the persistent issue, stating that bribery has long plagued the military.

“It’s been around for a long time.”

Phumtham, addressing the recent claims of kickbacks allegedly paid by a US company to the RTAF, admitted he has yet to examine the details of the latest allegations, adding that his immediate focus is on directing military relief operations for flood victims in the north and northeast regions.

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has committed to investigating reports suggesting that Deere, a US-based agricultural and construction equipment firm, paid bribes to secure contracts with the RTAF, the Department of Highways (DoH), and the Department of Rural Roads.

This commitment from the NACC follows Deere’s agreement to pay US$9.93 million (approximately 336 million baht) to settle charges by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The charges indicated that Deere’s Thai subsidiary, Wirtgen Thailand, bribed state agencies to win procurement contracts.

The NACC highlighted that this case of international bribery is of significant public interest. The commission is actively gathering information and coordinating with the SEC to ensure thorough investigation and prosecution of any officials found to have accepted bribes.

RTAF chief ACM Panpakdee Pattanakul confirmed the RTAF’s awareness of the reports, noting that the alleged bribes were paid between 2019 and 2020.

Yesterday, September 17, Phumtham emphasised the existence of agencies dedicated to handling corruption cases involving state officials and political office holders. The Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) deals with graft related to state officials, while the NACC addresses corruption among public office holders, reported Bangkok Post.

“They must be given a free hand to do their jobs. The Defence Ministry will not interfere with the investigation process.”

While addressing the broader issue of military procurement projects, Phumtham expressed uncertainty about continuing the initiatives started by his predecessor, Sutin Klungsang.

He stated that procurement projects, including those for Gripen fighter jets and submarines, will be revisited after addressing the immediate flooding emergency.