In a twist that seems more at home in a suspenseful TV drama than the corridors of power, a friend of Thai Progressive Party MP Chaiyamphawan “Puaut” Manpianjit has claimed that police officers demanded a substantial bribe to sweep a rape accusation under the rug. The claim adds another layer of complexity to a story already thick with intrigue and scandal.
It all began when a Taiwanese woman stepped forward with serious allegations against the MP, accusing him of rape following an encounter on January 9 at a hotel in the picturesque Chiang Mai province. The incident has dragged Chaiyamphawan into the spotlight, casting a shadow over a political career not unfamiliar with controversy. Not so long ago, he was expelled from the Move Forward Party (MFP) after a similar accusation, prompting a switch to the Thai Progressive Party where the specter of past allegations has once again risen.
Eyebrows were raised further when CCTV footage emerged, showcasing a night out that the MP shared with two women, potentially both Taiwanese tourists. The recordings reveal a seemingly cozy evening in a bar, with Chaiyamphawan engaging closely with a woman dressed in a black shirt. This woman, who appeared intoxicated, was later seen accompanying Chaiyamphawan back to her hotel, with the MP seen holding her hand—an act that may indicate camaraderie or something more.
Fast forward 20 minutes, and Chaiyamphawan was seen exiting the hotel alone. The footage ends here, but the narrative it inspired is still unfolding in the public domain.
Since the story leaped from local rumor to national headline, Chaiyamphawan has remained relatively quiet. Only his team members and a steadfast friend have stepped into the ring, asserting that these accusations are nothing more than a vexatious attempt to defame the weary MP. Interestingly, this friend, who wishes to keep their identity under wraps, disclosed to the press that during a summons to the police station in January, Chaiyamphawan was urged to grease palms with a hefty sum of 400,000 baht to hush up the case. Refusing to cough up the cash supposedly set the wheels of justice turning against him, with the police subsequently issuing an arrest warrant and publicizing the affair.
In a defense that echoes through shabby corridors of conspiracy plots, this friend claimed that the interaction was consensual, insisting the presence of sexual activity reflected in medical records only bolsters the truth they assert—consensual relations between adults.
In a rather bold move, the friend denied any intoxication on Chaiyamphawan’s part, inviting authorities and the media alike to delve into whether he actually ordered a single drink. Meanwhile, the MP hesitates to break his silence, fearing a disbelieving public, no doubt fanned by salacious tales woven by the rumor mill.
On the flip side of this unfolding drama, Pratchaya Thitla, the superintendent of Chiang Mai Police Station, took the stage in disbelief at claims of misconduct within his ranks. He has called upon Chaiyamphawan and his mysterious friend to hand over evidence of the alleged extortion, paving the way for a thorough investigation. The superintendent has vowed that any officers found guilty of such bribery will face stern consequences. Conversely, if this shadowy accusation of extortion proves unfounded, it is the accuser who will be meeting the firm hand of legal repercussions. Thus, the plot thickens, as the public watches with bated breath, the next chapters in this unfolding saga of politics and scandal in Thailand.
This scandal is so typical of politicians trying to weasel out of accusations. It’s disgraceful!
Isn’t it alarming how quickly allegations are dismissed as politically motivated? We need thorough investigations, not quick judgments.
Totally agree. Sweeping these things under the rug just perpetuates the cycle of abuse and corruption.
What’s more disgraceful is how easily people believe these scandals without any tangible evidence.
The politics in Thailand are always scandalous! Can’t we just elect someone with a clean slate for once?
Why do people automatically assume the MP is guilty? How about that guy who refused to pay the bribe? Maybe he’s innocent after all!
Yeah, it’s called ‘benefit of the doubt’. Innocent until proven guilty should be more than just words.
Everything about this screams setup! The media controls the narrative and everyone eats it up.
I think people too often believe the woman without considering that she might not be truthful. Isn’t that just as dangerous?
But Joe, it’s crucial to trust and support victims first. Too many have been silenced due to disbelief.
It’s a fine line we must tread, to support victims and ensure justice is fair and balanced.
I just can’t believe police tried to extort the MP. Aren’t they supposed to protect justice?
You’d be surprised how common corruption is within police forces, especially when politics are involved.
Sad truth. Yet it feels so wrong when those who protect us fall into greed.
This sounds like another distraction. What’s really going on behind the scenes politically, I wonder?
Witnessed much worse with past MPs. Sadly, this isn’t groundbreaking here.
Lack of accountability fosters repeated misconduct. How do we escape this cycle?
Imagine if the MP is actually innocent and it’s all a political setup. Who can he trust?
Everything here feels fishy. The alleged bribery, the silence… something’s off for sure.
We need more transparency from both the police and the politicians. The public deserves the truth, not just sensational headlines.
This scandal is huge! But seriously, are we going to see justice or just more cover-ups?
Youngster, you witness enough of these, you almost become numb to the lack of justice served.
Does that mean we stop hoping? We can’t give up on wanting better leaders!
An MP’s career is always tainted once these claims come out, guilty or not. Is that even fair?
The whole idea of him refusing a bribe speaks volumes. Either he’s really innocent, or someone is crafting an elaborate charade.
Maybe it’s both, Siri. We can’t rule out being trapped within political games.
If he’s guilty, let the law handle him. If innocent, we owe him a huge apology as a society.
This is everyday business in Thai politics, and honestly, I’m not surprised.
I know people want to think it’s just politics as usual, but we need to push for real change!
It’s always sad when real victims get overshadowed by potentially false accusations.
Another day, another scandal. C’mon, Thailand, we can do better!
Can the CCTV footage tell all? What about the gaps and the perspectives unseen? Makes you question everything…
If the truth doesn’t emerge, does that mean everyone is guilty or everyone is innocent? That’s hard to swallow.
It’s precisely in those gray areas that media thrives, Sue.
Yes, and it leaves the public caught in uncertainty!
How bad must the police situation be if a potential MP was asked for a bribe? That points to deep issues!