Five arrests have taken place after seven warrants were issued in relation to the alleged torture and murder of a narcotics suspect, by a group led by former Nakhon Sawan Police Station Director Pol Col Thitisan Uttanapol, with the ex-director widely known as Joe and Pol Lt Thoranin Matwanna still at large.
A special operations unit performed the arrest of the five detained police officers at Nakhon Sawan Police Station. The apprehended are Pol Maj Rawiroj Disthong, Pol Lt Songyos Klainak, Pol Sr Sgt Maj Supakorn Nimchuen, Pol Ln Corp Pawikorn Kammarew and Pol Sr Sgt Maj Wisut Boonkieo, who have all been remanded to Nakhon Sawan Court’s detainment unit and denied bail on the fear of evidence tampering.
Police Inspector General Pol Gen Wisanu Prasatthong, reported that all seven have been hit with criminal charges and will be prosecuted summarily. They have been relieved of civil service duty and also face disciplinary punishment.
Based on the national police chief’s earlier comments, a total of 13 officers are likely linked to the case. Pol Gen Wisanu said a further review of the roles of the other six is being undertaken, noting the repercussions affecting them may be more or less severe than those affecting the initial seven. He remarked that the cases may not progress as quickly as publicly desired but gave his assurance that wrongdoers would not be protected, with legal action to take place against anyone involved.
The Region 6 Provincial Police commander is also being considered for punitive action due to a failure to manage subordinates. By regulation, an inquest of up to 30 days must take place before any conclusion is reached. (NNT)
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