Forensic police are seen inspecting a motorcycle belonging to Pol Snr Sgt Maj Wichian Klanprasert from Bangkok’s Thong Lor police station. Nearby, a Ferrari driven by Vorayuth Yoovidhya, the youngest son of Red Bull executive Chalerm Yoovidhya, lies still. This solemn scene follows a harrowing hit-and-run accident that took place on September 4, 2012. (Photo: Somchai Poomlard)
The Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) in Bangkok announced plans to arraign eight suspects, including a former national police chief, on Thursday in connection with the notorious hit-and-run case involving the Red Bull heir. According to Wacharin Phanurat, deputy spokesman for the OAG, public prosecutors summoned the suspects to the office on Thursday to proceed with their arraignment at the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases.
The OAG’s decision followed a request by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), which suspected that the case had been mishandled. Among the indicted are former national police chief Pol Gen Somyot Poompanmoung and former deputy attorney-general Nate Naksuk. They face charges related to the alleged alteration of the Ferrari’s speed in the 2012 accident and the subsequent decision to dismiss Vorayuth Yoovidhya’s arraignment on a reckless driving charge.
Vorayuth Yoovidhya, son of the renowned Red Bull energy drink tycoon Chalerm Yoovidhya, has been on the run since his Ferrari struck and killed a Thong Lor police officer on September 3, 2012. Despite the gravity of the incident, several charges against him have been dropped over the years. A speeding charge was dismissed after the one-year statute of limitations expired in 2013. Similarly, a charge for failing to help the crash victim expired in 2017.
The only remaining charge Vorayuth faces is reckless driving causing death. This charge carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and has a 15-year statute of limitations, which will expire in 2027. As he evades justice, the case remains a haunting example of alleged systemic corruption and power dynamics.
Mr. Wacharin anticipates that the legal proceedings will culminate within a year, shedding light on the truth behind the accusations and the measures taken by those in positions of power to shield the affluent. The forthcoming arraignment aims to untangle the web of alleged corruption and malfeasance that has so far hindered justice for Pol Snr Sgt Maj Wichian Klanprasert.
This case has riveted public attention, not only for the tragic loss of a police officer but also for its grim illustration of the long arm of power and influence. As the nation watches closely, the anticipation is palpable – many hoping that justice, albeit delayed, will ultimately be delivered. The courtroom drama unfolding in Bangkok has the potential to set a significant precedent, sending a clear message that no one, regardless of their wealth or connections, is above the law.
I can’t believe it’s taken this long to bring these people to justice. This just shows how money can corrupt the entire system.
Exactly! It’s outrageous that they let so many charges expire. This is a travesty.
It’s all rigged. The rich always find a way to escape justice. Regular people like us would be behind bars instantly.
Absolutely! I just hope the remaining charge sticks and something changes in the system because of this.
I think people are overreacting. There is always more to the story. Have you seen any real evidence besides what’s fed to you by the media?
Are you seriously defending a hit-and-run? He killed a man and just disappeared!
This case makes me sick. It’s a blatant example of corruption and privilege going unchecked.
Totally agree. The fact that this case dragged out for so long is a clear indicator of the power imbalance.
Why do we even have statutes of limitations for such serious offenses? It’s like giving criminals a timed escape plan.
It’s meant to ensure timely justice, but clearly it can be exploited by those with resources.
Let’s not jump to conclusions until we see all the evidence laid out in court. Innocent until proven guilty, remember?
Court or not, the delaying tactics themselves speak volumes about the guilt involved.
Sure, but what about the manipulation of evidence and interference by those in power? Are you just going to ignore that?
Manipulation accusations have to be proven too. Mobs demanding justice aren’t always right.
How can anyone in their right mind think this isn’t an open and shut case of corruption?
It’s amazing that someone can just flee the country and avoid justice for so long.
I wish we had more transparency in these legal proceedings. It’s like they operate in the shadows.
100% agree. Transparency is key to rebuilding trust in the system.
The judiciary needs reform. We can’t have rich people using their wealth to evade accountability.
This case should serve as a wake-up call. How many more like this are out there?
Justice delayed is justice denied. Wichian Klanprasert and his family deserve better.
Money talks, even when it shouldn’t. This is why people have lost faith in the justice system.
I feel bad for the officer’s family. They’ve been waiting for over a decade with no closure.
Absolutely heartbreaking. I can’t imagine the pain of not getting justice for your loved one.
Honestly, do you think any real justice will come from this? I doubt it.
The international exposure might actually help this time. Everyone is watching.
It’s about time these high-profile cases get the attention they deserve. No more sweeping under the rug.
People keep saying ‘innocent until proven guilty,’ but the evidence is pretty damning.
Whatever happens, this case has spotlighted just how broken the system is. Change needs to come.