Thailand: Request to Transfer Investigation of Fraud and Money Laundering Case Against Former Election Commissioner to National Police Chief

Dr. Natthawut Wongniyom, Chairman and CEO of AURELIAN Company and its group of businesses, who claims to be a victim in a case involving alleged fraud, computer crimes, illegal fundraising, and money laundering by former Thai Election Commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn and others, has expressed dissatisfaction with the police investigation. On September 7, 2024, Dr. Natthawut submitted a letter to the Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, requesting the issuance of arrest warrants for six suspects, including Mr. Somchai, citing concerns about their potential to abscond and the severity of the potential penalties. Furthermore, on September 10, 2024, he submitted a letter to the Superintendent of Thonglor Police Station, urging him to proceed with the arrest warrant application process. He also alleged that one of the investigators was colluding with Mr. Somchai, engaging in biased investigative practices, and requested the investigator's identity and opposed their bail. This investigator is accused of distorting arrest records, leaking confidential case information to Mr. Somchai, and exhibiting a lack of neutrality. Dr. Natthawut filed a complaint with Thonglor Police Station on August 4, 2024, but is concerned about the investigation's delay and the potential loss of some submitted evidence documents. He argued that charges such as fraud, computer crimes, and money laundering carry potential prison sentences exceeding three years, and that the suspects, who frequently change their addresses and lack a fixed abode, provide sufficient grounds for arrest warrants. He also suggested that Mr. Somchai and his associates might abscond abroad through informal channels, similar to a figure previously known as "Penguin." Dr. Natthawut further claimed that over 2,000 victims are hesitant to testify due to fear of Mr. Somchai's influence, accusing him of using social media to threaten critics and damage their reputations. He pointed out that Mr. Somchai himself admitted to illicit fundraising in media interviews, attempting to evade responsibility by citing outdated laws. Dr. Natthawut alleged that Mr. Somchai solicited donations from the public through a Facebook account named "Pao Pai Nai," using the funds for political activities, legal fees, and fines. He asserted that this is illegal and that the objective is unlawful. In light of these circumstances, Dr. Natthawut announced his intention to submit another letter on September 14, 2024, at 10:30 AM, requesting the transfer of the Thonglor Police Station's investigation file to the Central Investigation Bureau for specialized handling of money laundering trails. He strongly criticized the Thonglor Police Station Superintendent for the investigation's delays and for failing to take measures such as asset freezes, despite the illegally raised donations forming the basis for money laundering, suggesting potential dereliction of duty. Dr. Natthawut stated that if the current Superintendent cannot perform his duties properly, he should resign and allow a more competent individual to take over. Citing his over 30 years of legal experience, he expressed his determination to legally prosecute Mr. Somchai. He also mentioned that Mr. Somchai has faced six criminal cases previously and indicated the possibility of filing over 100 cases nationwide. Furthermore, Dr. Natthawut suggested that after being disassociated from the "Orange Party," Mr. Somchai should focus on his own predicament. He also alluded to past attempts at government overthrow and party dissolution funded by a former Justice Minister, implying that Mr. Somchai is concealing illicit funds. Source: INN News