Another 189 officials under probe for graft

Of the targeted officials, 42 are heads of protection centres for the destitute.

The Social Development and Human Security Ministry has operated such centres across the country, allocating funds to sustain the lives of the profoundly vulnerable and underprivileged. However, a university student detected irregularities in fund disbursement during her internship at the Khon Kaen Protection Centre for the Destitute and blew the whistle late last year.

Now, the investigation has been expanded to cover all such centres across the country. PACC member Pol General Jarumporn Suramanee said the PACC at its latest meeting resolved to set up sub-panels to launch investigations of 189 officials. These officials work at 42 protection centres for the destitute, one coordination centre, and one self-development centre.
Jarumporn said the PACC was also set to review the report from an investigation on the disbursement of state funds for the destitute in eight provinces – Yala, Phatthalung, Loei, Mukdahan, Sakon Nakhon, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et and Chon Buri. 
“The Office of PACC is also in the process of investigating the use of the funds in 19 other provinces,” he added. 
Meanwhile, police yesterday officially called on the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate alleged bidding collusion in the procurement of vacuum trucks by several local administrative bodies. 
Pol Colonel Chak Pengsathorn, a deputy chief of the police force’s Counter Corruption Division, personally handed over the investigation report to the NACC. Running into about 60,000 pages, the report covers alleged irregularities in the procurement in Nonthaburi, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Sing Buri, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, Chon Buri and Rayong provinces.

Forty officials and seven companies have been accused of wrongdoing. 
“For the companies, seven chairmen and eight directors should be held responsible,” Chak said, adding that damages are estimated at Bt65 million.