Phuket City Police chief transferred amid underage nightlife staff probe

PHUKET: Phuket City Police Superintendent Chote Chitchai has been removed from active duty pending an investigation into underage staff working at Phuket Town nightclubs.

Col Chote told the Phuket Gazette today that he received the instant transfer order on Saturday.

“I received the order from Phuket Provincial Police Commander Chonasit Wattanavrangkul on Saturday to transfer to Phuket Provincial Police Station as a special assignment for 30 days,” he told the Gazette this afternoon.

“Today is a public holiday. I will report to Phuket Provincial Police Station tomorrow,” he added.

Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander Sakchai Limcharoen has been installed as Phuket City Police Acting Superintendent during the 30-day period, Col Chote said.

Asked what reason was given for the immediate temporary transfer, Col Chote explained, “This is Maj Gen Chonasit’s decision. I will be back as Phuket City Police Superintendent duty after the 30 days.”

“I have already taken up the position of Acting Superintendent at Phuket City Police Station,” Col Sakchai, told the Gazette. “This is just a temporary assignment… I have been ordered to ‘tighten up’ Phuket City Police Station.

“I believe you have already seen the media reports of underage staff being found working in nightlife venues in Phuket Town. The Commander [Maj Gen Chonasit] sees this as very important. That’s why I have been assigned this task,” he added.

“I believe Col Chote will be re-instated and I will resume my normal duties at Phuket Provincial Station as soon as the investigation is complete. However, it might take longer than 30 days to complete the investigation,” Col Sakchai said.

— Chutharat Plerin