Bangkok: The Prime Minister has directed the Cabinet to fully cooperate with the police in their investigation into the collapse of the State Audit Office building.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for relevant agencies to provide all necessary documents and information to facilitate the investigation led by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). The Comptroller General’s Department has been tasked with revising compensation payments to align with the extent of the damage caused by the collapse.
Mr. Jirayu Huangtrakul, spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office, disclosed that during the recent cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister issued several directives. These include determining the cause of the collapse and pursuing legal action against those responsible. The investigation’s progress has been hindered by a lack of cooperation from various agencies, prompting the Prime Minister to call for immediate compliance with police requests.
The Prime Minister’s orders highlight the need for cooperation from multiple departments. The Office of the Auditor General is expected to provide all relevant documents, including an audit committee report that cited the contractor’s breach of contract. The Meteorological Department and the Department of Mineral Resources have been instructed to submit a report on the earthquake’s impact in the Bangkok area to the Royal Thai Police.
Furthermore, the Comptroller General’s Department must assist in the investigation, particularly regarding procurement laws and contract termination authority. The Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning, along with the Ministry of Interior, is urged to cooperate fully, especially concerning construction design inspections of the Auditor General’s building.
The Ministry of Industry has been tasked with collaborating with the DSI to address issues related to substandard construction materials and illegal business operations. Additionally, the Prime Minister has called for a review of compensation measures for those affected by the earthquake, urging a more flexible approach to align compensation with actual damages.
Regarding visa-free measures, the Prime Minister has instructed relevant agencies to enforce laws against illegal activities by tourists, such as overstaying visas and unauthorized work. The government aims to adjust these measures to maximize their benefits while promoting tourism.
Mr. Jirayu further stated that the Prime Minister is urging all ministries to bolster confidence in Thailand as a destination for foreign investors and tourists. The government is committed to ensuring security and implementing economic stimulus measures for the second half of the year.