The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is preparing to indict three state officials for allegedly misusing public resources, such as vehicles and fuel reimbursements, for personal purposes. The officials in question are Pokpong Umyoo, the former director of the Rayong Coastal Aquaculture Research and Development Centre; Kitchai Kulsamrit, a former Uthai Thani provincial local administration officer; and Chakrawut Yangsantia, also known as Chaiyan Petaipaiwan, the permanent secretary for the Na Kham Tambon Administrative Organisation, as the NACC announced yesterday.
Mr. Pokpong allegedly utilized the centre’s car and pickup truck to transport materials to the site of his house under construction and conducted inspections during work hours for a period of 5 to 6 months in 2019. Moreover, he reportedly assigned 11 staff members from the centre to assist in relocating two trees, valued at approximately 4,000 baht, from the centre to his residence. These employees were also instructed to help with landscaping, gardening, and electrical tasks at Mr. Pokpong’s house. The Department of Fisheries, which oversees the centre, has been tasked with recovering the incurred damages.
In the case of Mr. Kitchai, the NACC’s findings revealed that between December 2018 and May 2019, he used a state-owned car as his personal vehicle, even parking it at his property. Additionally, Mr. Kitchai was accused of refueling his household car using a state-issued fuel card.
As for Mr. Chakrawut, the investigation found that he misused 26 fuel reimbursement coupons, each valued at 500 baht, amounting to a total of 13,000 baht. These coupons, part of a credit agreement between the Na Kham Administrative Organisation and Boriboon Borikarn petrol station, were reportedly used for his personal vehicle.
The NACC has determined that the actions of the three officials constitute serious disciplinary and criminal offenses under the Organic Act on Prevention and Suppression of Corruption and Sections 172 and 91 of the Criminal Code. The cases will now be forwarded to the attorney general for further legal proceedings.
It’s unbelievable how these officials can misuse public resources so blatantly. They should definitely face severe consequences.
I agree, Alice. The public trust is completely broken when officials behave like this.
Doesn’t it make you wonder about all the other misconduct that goes unnoticed?
Exactly, James. This might just be the tip of the iceberg. We need stronger oversight mechanisms.
Are you serious? Politicians all over the world do this. It’s almost normal now.
That’s a cynical view. Just because it’s common doesn’t mean we should accept it.
I believe that holding them accountable sets a precedent, even if corruption is widespread.
These punishments better be harsh. Otherwise, it just encourages more corruption.
True. If the consequences aren’t severe, what’s stopping others from doing the same?
Sophia, exactly. Drastic measures are needed to instill real fear of repercussions.
What’s surprising here? It’s not the first time Thai officials have been caught. Corruption is endemic.
It’s mind-boggling to think they thought they’d get away with it.
That’s because they usually do get away with it.
The misuse of public resources, even for something as minor as gardening, shows a blatant disregard for public trust.
Minor? This isn’t minor. It’s systematic exploitation of power!
You’re right. Using public resources for personal gain on any scale is unacceptable.
Wow, if this is what gets caught, imagine all the stuff that doesn’t. The public is probably losing millions.
Exactly. The uncovered cases are likely just a small fraction of the actual corruption.
The NACC better follow through with solid evidence. Too many times these cases fizzle out.
Corruption like this undermines the whole system. It’s the public that pays the price.
Public resources should be for the public. Simple as that. There’s no excuse for this behavior.
I worked in local admin before and let me tell you, this kind of stuff happens more than you think.
They ought to set an example with these guys. Maybe then others will think twice.
I just hope that the punishment is severe enough to serve as a deterrent.
Does anyone know if there’s any consequence for the higher-ups who allowed this to happen?
Good point, Carlos. Often, the people behind the scenes get away scot-free.
It’s naive to think this problem is limited to these three officials. This is likely just the beginning.
If we start investigating more thoroughly, who knows what else we would find.
There’s a saying: the fish rots from the head. Where’s the accountability at the highest levels?
Absolutely, Liam. Real change needs to start from the top.
Public sector scandal again? When will it end?
It’ll end when the public demands better and officials are actually held accountable.
Let’s be realistic. This is a global problem, not just in Thailand.
If the NACC is serious, this could be a turning point. But history doesn’t inspire confidence.
What do you expect from a system where oversight is weak and officials operate with impunity?
Couldn’t agree more, Kendra. Strengthening oversight mechanisms is key.