In a troubling revelation, the Royal Police Cadet Academy (RPCA) has acknowledged allegations involving a case of sexual harassment against a first-year police cadet by an instructor and an accomplice. Pol Maj Gen Sakrapee Priewpanich, the deputy commissioner of this prestigious institution in Nakhon Pathom, addressed the evolving scandal that initially surfaced on social media, affirming its veracity upon thorough examination.
Stepping into action, Pol Maj Gen Sakrapee instructed Pol Maj Gen Jirachart Charoensri, who leads the Cadet Command Division, to bring both the accuser and the accused to the table for a comprehensive inquiry and appropriate punitive measures. Amidst these unsettling circumstances, Pol Maj Gen Sakrapee reassured that the academy would not resort to clandestine cover-ups as failure to confront such an issue could tarnish its indelible reputation.
He emphasized the gravitas of the situation, categorizing it under sexual indecency, particularly since the young cadet in question has legally reached adulthood and holds the prerogative to initiate a criminal lawsuit. Presently, the cadet is consulting with his parents to decide on the subsequent course of action. Meanwhile, the academy has vowed transparency, asserting that a dedicated committee would delve into the matter, weighing the possibility of suspending or even permanently dismissing the implicated instructor from duty.
This alarming exposé has sparked widespread attention, largely due to a prominent Facebook page, “Bigkren,” which catalyzed the inquiry by urging national police chief Kittharath Punpetch to scrutinize the unfolding sexual harassment scandal. As detailed in the circulating post, a seasoned academy instructor, teamed with a fellow police officer, allegedly manipulated their positions to coerce a cadet into unwanted actions, dangerously blurring the lines of authority and respect.
Revisiting the night of November 16, it was reported that the duo cornered the cadet near the academy bleachers, pressured him into consuming alcohol, and shockingly, attempted to coerce him into an act of masturbation, thinly disguised as assistance. The cadet bravely reported this egregious violation to his superior, firmly categorizing it as sexual harassment.
The accused instructor, an alleged repeat offender, was reported to have committed similar transgressions against cadets previously, yet these complaints seemingly languished in silent bureaucratic corridors, sparking outrage among cadet families. However, the tide is turning as the “Bigkren” post encouraged witnesses to corroborate these allegations with sufficient evidence already piled against the perpetrators.
Reacting swiftly, Pol Gen Kittharath on Wednesday commanded a formal investigation into these significant allegations, vowing that any culprits involved would be subject to stringent disciplinary actions and potential ramifications for misconduct. He strongly advised the aggrieved cadet to formalize an official complaint to ensure due process.
Speculations circled that the instructor in question holds the rank of a police major, involved in teaching English and law at the RPCA’s campus in Samphran district, Nakhon Pathom. This unsettling revelation raises serious considerations regarding the dedicated tutelage and secure environment expected at such esteemed police training institutions.
Why are these cases always swept under the rug until social media gets involved? It’s a disgrace for any training institution.
Exactly! Social media is like the only way to get justice these days. Sad, but true.
True, but we also need the institutions to take their own accountability without needing public pressure.
It’s not just social media; internal policies need to change. Perhaps tougher laws might help deter future incidents.
I’m not surprised. Power dynamics in such places often go unchecked and it’s the newcomers who face the brunt.
I agree, Michael. As someone who has been in a similar environment, young cadets are often afraid to speak up.
If the accused is a repeat offender, why weren’t actions taken before? The whole system seems complicit.
Exactly, Cynthia. Systemic issues like these require internal and external scrutiny to resolve.
I hope the academy takes this seriously and sets an example for other institutions.
If they don’t, it will end up encouraging more such behavior!
Yes, accountability is key. Swift action is needed, and transparency is a must.
Why doesn’t the government intervene more prominently in cases like this? They only seem to care when it’s too late.
That’s because governmental interventions often come with a lot of bureaucracy. They need to act faster!
Absolutely, Helen. Bureaucracy can’t be an excuse for such grave issues.
This is just appalling. Our police cadets deserve better protection from misconduct and harassment.
I couldn’t agree more, Sam. These individuals are future protectors; we need to protect them first.
If allegations were known before, those involved in the cover-up should also face severe consequences.
Is this really the kind of behavior expected from leaders of such a prestigious academy? Pathetic.
Hopefully, with this exposure, such behavior will not be tolerated any longer.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed, Mikey. Accountability should be non-negotiable.
Courageous of the cadet to come forward. It takes guts to stand up against such authority figures.
This will surely discourage young people from joining such academies. Trust once broken is hard to rebuild.
Can someone explain to me why this didn’t make bigger headlines until now?
I really hope the other cadets come forward if they faced similar issues.
Sexual harassment is no small matter, especially in a training academy. This requires immediate redressal.
You said it, Joseph. Immediate actions will also deter others who misuse their power from trying the same!
Absolutely, Dani. This is crucial for maintaining integrity within the ranks.
More than just dismissal is needed here. Legal action should be taken against the perpetrators.
Are there counselors available for cadets? They may need psychological support after such incidents.