Police Chief's Relocation Disputed by Phumtham: Denial Issued
In a series of developments, controversy has arisen over a major gambling den raid in Don Muang district and allegations of an unfair police reshuffle in Thailand.
Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has denied having the authority or intention to transfer National Police Chief Kittharath Punpetch. He stated that any transfer of Pol Gen Kittharath must be justified and follow legal procedures. The acting prime minister did not express concern about the rescheduling of the meeting, stating that it is still ongoing.
Rumours suggest that Acting Prime Minister Phumtham was preparing to move Pol Gen Kittharath due to the controversy over the gambling den raid and complaints about the allegedly unfair police reshuffle. However, the acting prime minister dismissed these claims as exaggerated and urged the media to carefully verify their sources.
Four senior officers, including Pol Maj Gen Charoonkiat Pankaew, submitted formal complaints about the police reshuffle process at the Police Commission meeting on Thursday. Pol Maj Gen Charoonkiat stated that the petition was not an act of insubordination but a call for fairness, suggesting that promotions should be based on merit rather than politics or personal influence.
The officers argued that capable candidates were being overlooked for promotion, citing examples like Pol Maj Gen Noppasin Poonsawat, who was not nominated for the position of deputy police chief despite his qualifications, according to the complaints. Pol Maj Gen Noppasin Poonsawat is a police major general who was not nominated for the position following allegations of an unfair police personnel reshuffle.
The ongoing police reshuffle process is being reviewed. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham emphasized that his relationship with the police chief remains cordial. After around 40 minutes of discussion, Acting Prime Minister Phumtham adjourned the meeting until Saturday, emphasizing every officer's right to submit a petition.
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the gambling den raid and the allegations of an unfair police reshuffle continue to unfold in Thailand. The acting prime minister has denied any intention to transfer the national police chief and has emphasized the importance of following legal procedures in any personnel changes. The police reshuffle process is currently under review, and the acting prime minister has urged the media to verify their sources carefully.
