Bangkok: “Thawee” is confident that the Chinese government cannot interfere in the collapse of the Office of the Auditor General building. Thawee assures that the compensation of 120 million baht provided by a Chinese state-owned enterprise will not influence the ongoing legal proceedings.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, the Minister of Justice, addressed concerns regarding the involvement of China Railway Number 10 (Thailand) Co., Ltd. This Chinese state-owned enterprise has approved compensation for the victims of the building collapse, totaling 120 million baht. Thawee emphasized that this compensation, intended for the deceased and injured, is a humanitarian gesture and does not pertain to the criminal case, which will proceed as per Thai law.
Thawee further clarified that the compensation will not mitigate the sentences of those involved in the collapse. He noted that while the Chinese government might seek to protect its enterprise, they are expected to act fairly as the incident has repercussions on China’s reputation. He acknowledged that Chinese experts are investigating the legalities and causes behind the collapse.
When questioned about Mr. Chuanling Zhang’s claims of being a representative of a Chinese state enterprise investing in Thailand, Thawee stated that such claims have no bearing on Thai law. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has identified all accused parties under the Foreign Business Act, which includes three Thai nationals and one Chinese national. Thawee highlighted the necessity to expedite the investigation process to ensure a thorough review by the prosecutor.
The investigation into the building collapse is ongoing, involving multiple facets such as procurement, bid rigging, and nominee cases. Additionally, there are inquiries into a related case of a steel company using fake tax invoices between 2016 and 2017, with investigators instructed to proceed cautiously following the Supreme Court’s guidelines.
When asked whether references to the Chinese government might pressure Thai officials, Thawee reiterated the importance of justice, regardless of nationality. He assured that his confidence lies in the fact that the Ministry of Justice operates within legal frameworks, independent of external influences.
Furthermore, Thawee addressed the status of Thai nationals who have turned themselves in, indicating that they are still presumed innocent. The investigation delves into the source of funds and share transfers to ascertain their involvement.