Nakhon Phanom: The deputy mayor of Tha Uthen resumed work immediately following the expiration of the statute of limitations in the contentious Tak Bai case, prompting Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to order an investigation. The case centers around Mr. Wisanu Lertsongkram, the district chief of Tha Uthen, who was previously a defendant in the case and had an arrest warrant issued against him. His return to work coincided with an investigation he conducted on a local incident involving property destruction by a drug-influenced individual.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wisanu had submitted a leave request covering the period between October 15-18, despite being wanted in the Tak Bai case. His superiors annulled his leave due to the arrest warrant, but they failed to contact him until the statute of limitations expired on October 25. He reappeared at the district office the following day, declining interviews with the media and stating that he had only been a driver two decades ago when the cas
e emerged.
Administrative officials outlined the standard procedure for civil servants absent for 15 consecutive days, which involves reporting to the appointing authority for a factual investigation. This is a general practice applicable to all civil servants, not just the district chief. Non-severe disciplinary violations typically result in minor penalties such as reprimands or salary adjustments.
Reporters questioned Deputy Prime Minister Anutin about potential actions against the Permanent Secretary of Tha Uthen. Anutin mentioned that a fact-finding committee had been initiated to address the situation, noting that the civil servant in question was absent for six days. He stressed the importance of fair treatment and adherence to regulations, acknowledging the potential impact on career advancement due to ethical concerns.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Samran Nuanma, representing the Royal Thai Police, reiterated the police’s diligence in the Tak Bai case. Despite comprehensive searches and international coordination
, the suspects, some of whom fled abroad, evaded capture. Consequently, with the statute of limitations expiring, the court dismissed the case, nullifying the arrest warrants.
The return of Mr. Wisanu to his duties after the statute’s expiration will be subject to his superiors’ assessment. The National Police Chief is expected to further investigate the circumstances surrounding the police’s inability to arrest the suspects.
Recent observations at Mr. Wisanu’s residence revealed signs of a hasty departure, with household items left unattended, raising questions about his leave and sudden return to work.
Source: Thai News Agency