Bangkok: The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is set to interrogate Mr. Waratphon Waratworakul, known as ‘Boss Paul’, inside Bangkok Special Prison following the emergence of an audio clip that suggests a significant bribe was paid to a DSI officer. The clip, which claims a payment of 10 million baht was made, has prompted DSI to confirm that evidence of potential wrongdoing exists, necessitating both disciplinary and criminal proceedings.

According to Thai News Agency, the audio clip involves a conversation between a man and a woman, where the woman asserts that money was paid through a mediator to cover legal expenses and prevent a press conference. Ms. Krisanong Suwanwong, director of the Online Network Promotion Coordination Center and the Anti-Corruption News Center, acknowledged that the incident took place over a decade ago and that the mediator involved is deceased.

Pol. Lt. Col. Yuthana Phraedam, the acting director-general of DSI, stated that experts have been tasked to coordinate with th
e news outlet that released the clip. The DSI aims to authenticate the clip and verify whether it has been altered. Mr. Waratphon will be questioned to ascertain the truth of the matter, including whether he met with DSI officials directly or through an intermediary, and to confirm the death of the mediator. Should evidence confirm any official’s misconduct, appropriate actions will be pursued.

When questioned about Mr. Ratthaphum Tokongsub’s alleged involvement in the Forex-3D share case linked to a financial transfer of over 6 million baht, Pol. Lt. Col. Yuthana clarified that numerous individuals are implicated in the case. Investigators focus on those with clear evidence of intentional involvement, considering the extent of their participation. The investigation aims to differentiate between those who knowingly engaged in illegal activities and those who might have been unwittingly hired.