Bangkok: The Department of Corrections has initiated a comprehensive raid on “Cell 8” of the Bangkok Special Prison in response to allegations involving the former prison commander. The raid comes after the commander was transferred amid accusations of providing benefits to Chinese inmates.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Yutthana Nakruangsri, Deputy Director-General and spokesperson for the Department of Corrections, led the operation early this morning. He has been appointed as the acting commander of the Bangkok Remand Prison and prioritized the inspection of Ward 8, the largest inmate area within the facility, housing over 900 inmates. This ward includes a former carpentry workshop, now repurposed as a dormitory for Chinese inmates, which has raised suspicions of harboring prohibited items. Additionally, a kitchen area where Thai inmates have reported insufficient food supplies was also scrutinized.
Mr. Yutthana reported that the recent search did not uncover any condoms on November 16th, but boxes of condoms, women and Chinese inmates, and numerous prohibited items, such as electrical appliances, portable air conditioners, and lighters, were found. Mr. Paitoon Mongkhonhatthi, Inspector-General of the Department of Corrections, has been appointed to lead the fact-finding mission. This team will question Mr. Manop Chomchuen, the former commander, alongside 14 other officers who have been transferred.
Further news reports indicate that the November 16th raid took place on a day when visits are usually not permitted, aiming to locate phones, which are strictly prohibited in the prison. The search extended to the prison director’s lounge, which was locked and required a key for access. Inside, officials discovered a foreign woman and a male Chinese inmate.
It was also noted that Mr. Manop arrived at Bangkok Remand Prison yesterday, and the transferred guards have not yet departed, hinting at possible tampering with evidence. Consequently, a follow-up raid was conducted this morning to ensure thorough investigation.