The Police Complaints Review Board (PCRB) has reportedly found grounds to accuse former national police chief Torsak Sukvimol and more than 200 other officers of disciplinary offences linked to bribes from online gambling networks.
A source said the finding followed a seven-month investigation prompted by a complaint filed by lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd in March 2024. Mr Sittra, who had developed a high profile as a crusader, was himself charged with fraud a few months later.
The PCRB gathered evidence and documents from multiple agencies before concluding on Wednesday that there were sufficient grounds to pursue misconduct cases, the source said.
No direct money trail to Pol Gen Torsak’s personal accounts was found, though some funds were linked to temple donations, the person added.
The accused will be given an opportunity to present explanations before penalties are decided, he said.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission is also looking into bribery allegations against Pol Gen Torsak.
Pol Gen Torsak served as national police chief from October 2023 until his retirement on Sept 30, 2024. The months leading up to his retirement were marked by a bitter feud with one of his deputies, Pol Gen Surachate ‘Big Joke’ Hakparn.
The two accused each other of having links to online gamblers, and Pol Gen Surachate was ultimately dismissed from the force without a pension. He continues to pursue legal cases against the police department.