Thai Parliament Passes Bill to Provide Better Protection for Witnesses in Criminal Cases

[snoop1130]

 

Thailand’s House of Representatives has voted overwhelmingly in favor of amending the Protection of Witnesses in Criminal Cases Act, to provide better protection for witnesses.

 

Justice Minister Somsak Thepsuthin said several sections of the bill were subject to change. The amendments were necessary because certain sections in the existing Act were not practical, adding that the law needs updating to be fairer to witnesses.

 

According to the amendment, the Witness Protection Bureau (WPB) is duty-bound to train people in protecting witnesses, while the amendment will also give other agencies the power to offer remedial assistance to them. Law enforcement officials will have the authority to search and impound vehicles or detain anyone suspected of causing harm to a witness.

 

The definition of “witnesses” will be broadened to cover informants and plaintiffs in criminal cases, and the amendment will make witnesses eligible for reimbursement of travel expenses incurred when making trips to provide statements to authorities.

 

-- © Copyright NNT 2021-07-08

 

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[hotchilli]

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

According to the amendment, the Witness Protection Bureau (WPB) is duty-bound to train people in protecting witnesses, while the amendment will also give other agencies the power to offer remedial assistance to them. Law enforcement officials will have the authority to search and impound vehicles or detain anyone suspected of causing harm to a witness.

After harm has been done... a bit late for the witness.