Fugitive Ex-Police Superintendent Arrested for Embezzling Officer Funds

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

In a significant breakthrough, authorities have apprehended a former police superintendent accused of embezzling officer allowances, bringing an end to a years-long pursuit. Police Colonel Chaiwat, who presided over the Lat Lum Kaeo Police Station in Pathum Thani, was arrested on 7th May by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) following a warrant issued by the Region 1 Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases.

Chaiwat allegedly misappropriated 262,676 baht from an allocated 283,176 baht fund designated for his subordinates. This budget was meant to support officers operating various checkpoints under his command. Instead of distributing the full allowance, Chaiwat reportedly persuaded his officers to entrust the money to him, pledging to distribute it himself. In reality, he dispensed a mere 20,500 baht collectively, pocketing the remainder for personal gain.

"The funds were intended to support checkpoint operations," stated an NACC spokesperson. "Instead, the former superintendent kept the majority of the money for personal use."

Eluding capture since 2020, Chaiwat managed to remain at large until his recent arrest. Following his apprehension, he confirmed his identity and was subsequently taken to NACC headquarters for legal proceedings.

The operation, directed by NACC Secretary-General Saroj Phungramphan with assistance from Deputy Secretary General Chadarat Anakaorn and Region 1 officers, marks a decisive step in addressing systemic corruption within law enforcement.

Chaiwat now faces charges under the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act, legislation aimed at clamping down on corrupt practices and reinforcing public faith in the integrity of law enforcement agencies.

This case has rekindled public ire over entrenched police corruption in Thailand, highlighting a series of scandals involving senior officers misappropriating state resources for personal enrichment. The public and authorities alike continue to demand accountability and transparency across all levels of the police force.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-08