PM seeks proof of exam fraud

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has challenged anyone who can link government members to an alleged local-government recruitment examination fraud network to take their evidence directly to the National Anti-Corruption Commission.

Anutin, who is also interior minister, dismissed reports that a serving cabinet minister may be involved. He said allegations based on rumours could not be addressed without verifiable evidence, and promised that anyone found guilty would face action regardless of rank.

He also said people who believed corruption had occurred at any level should provide evidence for investigators to examine. Complaints can also be filed with the Interior Ministry's Damrongtham Centre, he said. The government has ordered a serious disciplinary investigation and transferred officials suspected of involvement or conflicts of interest from positions overseeing the Department of Local Administration.

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Submit as much evidence as possible

His comments came after reports that a suspect arrested in connection with the alleged examination fraud had implicated a serving minister. However, a source in the Anti-Corruption Division's investigation team said investigators had found no evidence linking any current cabinet minister to the alleged network.

The investigation followed allegations that money had been collected from applicants seeking local government jobs. Prawit Jaratwatcharurat, also known as “Major Heng,” was arrested after investigators launched a fact-finding inquiry into claims that a serving minister stood behind the network. He was granted bail on Aug. 26. Investigators have sought evidence from the Department of Special Investigation concerning two officials and their alleged links to suspects, while the claims have been described as vague and based on hearsay. A complainant reportedly did not get the job and has not received a refund.

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If they are involved, everyone will be dealt with