Bangkok: The Prime Minister has declared an expansive crackdown on drugs and illegal businesses, emphasizing that wherever he goes, he will be targeted and has no recourse. He noted that every organization comprises both good and bad people, criticizing those who dismissively say, “it rains like pig dung flows,” and expressed support for officials managing these situations without fear of influence. Furthermore, he is preparing to request bail from the court in a case involving a person possessing numerous weapons, which he believes are not intended for self-defense.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the issue of potential high-level actions against individuals involved in providing fake ID cards for foreigners. He confirmed that investigations are ongoing and further actions will be taken against those involved. He tasked the Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration with clarifying the details of the bounty.
In response to questions about the administration’s involvement, the Prime Minister assured that no one in his government would participate in such activities. He emphasized his camaraderie with fellow police officers, having known them since childhood, and urged them to maintain confidentiality to monitor behavior effectively. He also reassured them that revealing names would lead to severe consequences.
Anutin encouraged anyone with information to report to the police, emphasizing that withholding information would not bring any benefits. He stated, “Bring it to the police so they can arrest and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law,” indicating that known names would be used to broaden the investigation.
When asked about purging officials from the Ministry of Interior, the Prime Minister clarified that the term “purge” should not be used. He acknowledged that while every organization has a minority of bad actors, their actions tarnish the reputations of the majority. He emphasized the importance of suppressing, prosecuting, and eliminating these individuals.
Addressing concerns about damage from extortion, Anutin confirmed that actions have been taken against corrupt officials, including dismissals and prosecutions. However, he noted that further investigations would be conducted with the Bank of Thailand and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanpraphas to trace financial trails related to the crime.
Anutin acknowledged connections to the grey business sector, likening them to “rain and pig dung.” He stated that individuals involved in human trafficking, gambling, and other illicit activities are interconnected. However, he praised operators for their hard work in implementing government policies, stating that continuous efforts have resulted in significant arrests.
Regarding the citizenship policy during his tenure, Anutin reiterated that it was based on humanitarian principles, dismissing concerns about loss of face. He criticized those exploiting loopholes, stating that district chiefs and high-ranking officials prioritizing personal gain damage the nation’s reputation and face prosecution.
Anutin stressed the government’s commitment to law enforcement, highlighting the discovery of numerous weapons in a single household. He expressed concern about the implications of such discoveries and emphasized the need to prevent civilians from possessing dangerous weapons. He criticized the low bail amount set for an individual involved in such offenses, expressing intent to address the matter with the President of the Supreme Court, while respecting the court’s discretion.