Bangkok:Samart Jenchaichitvanich, former Assistant Minister of Justice, has voiced concerns over the Crime Suppression Division's (CSD) decision to refuse a GPS-related case, questioning whether the decision was in the public interest or merely for engagement metrics.

According to Thai News Agency, the issue began when Mr. Patarapong Supakorn, also known as "Lawyer Aun Buriram," discovered two GPS devices under his car and reported the matter. The CSD responded with a letter dated October 22, 2016, stating that the case was not complex enough to meet their criteria for investigation, thus transferring the case to Nakhon Ratchasima City Police Station. The CSD holds investigative authority across the Kingdom but has specific criteria for accepting cases.

The Supreme Court judgment No. 2502/2566 clarifies the CSD's investigative authority and procedures for case acceptance. The judgment distinguishes between the authority to investigate and the criteria for accepting internal investigations, as outlined in the Criminal Procedure Code. The refusal to accept internal investigation does not imply the case lacks merit, nor does it deny the right to request a review of the order. If the GPS installation was unlawful, authorities must investigate and identify those responsible.

Mr. Samart stressed that he did not accuse Lawyer Aun of any unlawful actions. He emphasized the importance of presenting verifiable facts to the public rather than focusing on social media engagement. He highlighted that Article 34 of the Constitution protects freedom of expression, while Articles 32 and 29 ensure the protection of individual honor and the presumption of innocence. Relevant criminal laws also cover defamation and computer crimes, underscoring that not all false statements are criminal offenses.