Bangkok: The National Statistical Office (NSO) has addressed recent allegations of corruption in competitive examinations, pledging full cooperation with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to identify and punish those involved. This follows a scandal involving alleged cheating in local government exams, which has prompted urgent clarifications from the Department of Local Administration (DLA).
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Local Administration confirmed the security of actual answer sheets, which are stored in a secure room under stringent security measures. The DLA has also expressed its commitment to working with the NACC to expedite the investigation and ensure that those responsible face justice.
The allegations surfaced after a joint announcement by the NACC and the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Suppression Division (ACMSD) on June 23, 2026, revealing the discovery of a residence in Bang Len Subdistrict, Nonthaburi Province. This location was allegedly used for storing "alternate answer sheets" intended to manipulate scores for financial gain. A primary suspect, Mr. P., identified as the Director of the Strategy and Budget Division of a municipality in Phetchabun Province, was implicated in the storage and concealment of these answer sheets.
The Department of Local Administration has clarified its role in the examination process, highlighting that the Central Committee for Local Government Employee Examinations (CGE) has tasked the DLA with overseeing the competitive examination for local government recruitment. The examination, conducted by Srinakharinwirot University, encompasses all stages from question preparation to score processing. Throughout the process, the DLA has collaborated with various anti-fraud organizations, including the NACC, PACC, ACMSD, DSI, AMLO, and CCGE, to ensure examination integrity.
Currently, the answer sheets are secured in a room with dual key access and 24-hour surveillance, as specified by the Terms of Reference. The DLA has reiterated its readiness to cooperate with investigations across agencies, emphasizing that any individual found complicit in the alleged corruption will face legal consequences under civil, criminal, and administrative law.