Bangkok: Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwpaen, Deputy Inspector-General of the Royal Thai Police, has addressed concerns surrounding allegations made by Pol. Gen. Surachet Hakpal regarding the use of mule accounts by police officers. Trairong emphasized that mule accounts are a tool for money laundering and organized crime, and insisted that such practices are not routine within the police force.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong responded to Pol. Gen. Surachet’s claims, highlighting that mule accounts facilitate illegal activities, such as call center scams and online gambling. He argued that these practices suggest corruption and should not be considered normal within the police force. Trairong stated that any evidence of mule account usage by police officers would lead to prosecution, underscoring the need for public confidence in the police force’s integrity.
Trairong also addressed the issue of arrest warrants related to former Deputy National Police Commissioner Surachet and his subordinates. He noted that petitions to the Criminal Court and Bangkok South Criminal Court were ultimately dismissed, and emphasized the importance of not misrepresenting judicial decisions. Trairong reiterated that the Royal Thai Police are committed to upholding legal standards and that any allegations should be weighed against evidence.
In his statement, Trairong sought to dispel perceptions of internal conflict within the police force, framing the issue as one between law enforcement and the accused. He urged the public to consider the judicial process, which involves ongoing investigations into high-ranking police officers, including Surachet, by the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Trairong stressed the importance of a balanced view, particularly in cases involving former police officers accused of money laundering.
Furthermore, Trairong expressed concerns about the format of a recent House Committee confrontation, where suspects and police officers were questioned. He argued that such matters should be addressed in court rather than in public forums, to prevent influencing public opinion or gaining an advantage in information warfare. He emphasized the need for careful consideration by the Royal Thai Police and the House of Representatives regarding the handling of such sensitive issues.
Trairong concluded by asserting his readiness to address questions and defend the police force’s actions. He clarified that his participation in the committee meeting was necessary to ensure the Royal Thai Police’s stance was adequately represented, dismissing notions of fear or reluctance to engage with the public discourse.