Watana claims NCPO officers threatening him at home

The former commerce minister said at least two military officers, including Corporal Veerapong Soisena, had been keeping an eye on him and were seen wandering near his residence since April 14. 

The politician, released last Thursday from a fourth spell of detention, showed a photo of Veerapong, who he accused of visiting outside his housing estate. 

“The NCPO should stop abusing its authority,” he said, |claiming the junta violated its own Order – No 3/2558 – which allows authorities to summon him for interrogation. Watana said he was not asked anything during his detention, which was a “clear violation” of the order, though he had no new information to share. 

He said the NCPO should |have pressed charges against |him instead of harassing him and his family. He warned he would sue those behind his detention once the situation returns to normal. 

Watana said he would continue to exercise his right to freedom of speech by expressing his opinions. 

The politician was detained on two charges: violating the Computer Crime Act by allegedly posting false Facebook messages that caused damage to top brass at the NCPO; and breaching a pact he signed with the NCPO to not pursue any political activity once released. 

NCPO spokesman Colonel Winthai Suvaree yesterday dismissed Watana’s claims, saying the officers seen near his residence were there to keep an eye on Watana, and provide him with security. 

“The military officers’ moves cannot be considered an infringement on his rights, and Watana cannot use that as an accusation against them,” Winthai said.