Parents of ‘Nong Mei’ Seek Meeting with National Police Chief Over Concerns About Officer’s Promotion

Bangkok: Parents of ‘Nong Mei’, Mr. Pichet and Mrs. Sukanya, have expressed their readiness to meet with the national police chief to discuss concerns regarding the promotion of the individual involved in their son’s case. They are questioning whether the person should continue serving as a police officer.

According to Thai News Agency, the parents stated that any future actions would be taken after consulting with their lawyer. They have already pursued the matter up to the Supreme Court and are weary from the lengthy legal process. Although they are not discussing the legal aspects to avoid interfering with the court, they admitted to feeling conflicted, having lost their son while witnessing the perpetrator’s career advancement in the police force.

The family has requested that Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, the national police chief, consider the suitability of the officer’s promotion, especially given the rapid advancement from Pol. Lt. to Pol. Lt. They are concerned whether the Royal Thai Police Commission is aware of this situation. Pol. Gen. Kittirat noted that the individual was not a police officer at the time of the incident, thus not subject to discipline under the Police Act of 2022. However, the family feels this is incorrect, as the person had already chosen a career in law enforcement.

The national police chief has expressed a willingness to meet privately with the family, which they see as a positive step. They intend to discuss whether the officer should remain in uniform, although the final decision rests with the chief. The family’s lawyer will facilitate this meeting, though the exact timing remains uncertain. The family intends to review the rules of the Sam Phran Military Academy to understand the disciplinary process better, yet they acknowledge that unresolved disciplinary issues could leave them feeling resentful.

The parents also addressed a complaint regarding the initial autopsy performed by a doctor, which led to the disappearance of Nong Mei’s organs. The father mentioned that the doctor was recently questioned, though it is unclear if the doctor attended. He questioned why the organs were not returned to the family if the doctor was innocent.

Mrs. Sukanya expressed gratitude for the support received from people both domestically and internationally. She mentioned the emotional and logistical challenges faced while seeking justice for her son. Despite the difficulties, she remains committed to clearing her son’s name and addressing accusations about his health, which allegedly contributed to his death.

She clarified that her son was healthy enough to endure military cadet training for five months, challenging claims that he died due to poor health. She is determined to resolve these issues for her child’s honor and expressed a desire to retreat from public life once justice is served. Mrs. Sukanya highlighted the emotional toll of the situation, but she remains focused on exonerating her son. She also acknowledged learning about forgiveness from her son and expressed appreciation for the support she has received.