Crime Son of Prominent MP Sparks Violence at Songkhla Polling Station

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Amarin 

 

An incident disrupted the voting process in Songkhla Province afternoon of 11 May, when the son of a well-known Member of Parliament reacted angrily to being told not to take photographs inside a polling booth. The situation escalated when a group of seven men later assaulted a police officer at the scene.

 

The confrontation took place at Polling Station 7, Moo 2, in the Phawong subdistrict of Songkhla. Reports indicate that the son of a prominent politician attempted to take photographs while voting, an act prohibited under Thai electoral law. When a police officer intervened to prevent the violation, the individual became irate and verbally abused the officer.

 

Approximately 20 minutes after the initial altercation, three pickup trucks arrived at the polling station, carrying a group of young men allegedly affiliated with the MP’s son. They proceeded to physically assault the officer involved, identified as Pol. Sgt. Nisatit Kongthep, a Border Patrol Police officer. The attackers reportedly used chairs to strike the officer, causing injuries to his head, eye and wrist. He is being treated at Songkhla Hospital.

 

Pol. Lt. Col. Somnuek Kunmanee, Director of the Songkhla Provincial Election Commission Office, confirmed the attack and stated that authorities have identified the individuals responsible. Efforts are underway to persuade them to surrender to the police.

 

In addition to this violent incident, two other complaints have been reported in Songkhla during local elections: one involving alleged vote-buying and another concerning the destruction of a ballot paper. Authorities have pledged to conduct thorough investigations into all reported incidents, using available evidence and witness statements.

 

The events have raised serious concerns over election security and the behaviour of individuals connected to political figures, as well as the need for enforcement of electoral laws.

 

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-12.

 

 

[Jim Blue]

Interesting to see how this plays out .

 

[ikke1959]

Rules and laws are only for the common people, High ranked people and Government officials and their family members are free to do as they want.. Seen and heard it many times already...This is just another case... 

[JoePai]

Efforts are underway to persuade them to surrender to the police       🤣

[impulse]

3 hours ago, Jim Blue said:

Interesting to see how this plays out .

 

Songkhla is a world unto itself. 

 

If the guy's connected to the fishing families, they'll probably end up apologizing to him and offering to replace any chairs that got damaged beating the cops with them.

  

But, I hope I'm wrong.  I love Songkhla and the people.  But they have messed up politics.

 

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Police Chief Condemns Brutal Attack on Officer at Songkhla Polling Station

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

National police chief has issued a firm condemnation after a border patrol officer was viciously beaten at a polling station in Songkhla province, vowing that all perpetrators will face the full force of the law.

 

Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, described the attack as “brazen and lawless” after Pol. Sgt. Maj. Nisathit Kongthep, of Border Patrol Police Company 43, was assaulted while on duty during municipal council and mayoral elections in Phawong subdistrict.

 

The incident took place at polling station no. 7 in Moo 2 of Mueang district, when Sgt. Maj. Nisathit intervened to stop a group of individuals from taking photographs inside the station, an act prohibited under Thailand’s electoral laws. It later emerged that the person taking photos was a member of the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO), who was accompanied by a group of followers.

 

According to reports, tempers flared when the officer warned the group that photography was not permitted. A mob of five to seven men then attacked Sgt. Maj. Nisathit, before fleeing the scene. He is currently recovering at Songkhla Hospital.

 

Pol. Gen. Kittirat has ordered a swift and thorough investigation, assigning the Songkhla provincial police chief to personally oversee the case. He has also instructed special operations teams to crack down on any influential figures or groups attempting to act above the law.

 

“This type of lawless behaviour will not be tolerated,” said the police chief. “It does not matter who the perpetrators are, everyone must be held accountable. No one has the right to place themselves above the law.”

 

He also confirmed that the investigation will explore whether the attackers are linked to any broader criminal activity. Authorities have been tasked with collecting evidence quickly and preparing legal proceedings against all involved.

 

In addition, Pol. Gen. Kittirat has dispatched senior officers to provide support to the injured officer and has demanded full legal action be pursued without delay.

 

“This incident is a stark reminder that respect for the rule of law is essential in a democratic society,” he added. “Anyone who dares defy it will be met with strong and decisive justice.”

 

The investigation is ongoing.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-12.

 

 

[Geoffggi]

1 hour ago, Georgealbert said:

Pol. Gen. Kittirat has ordered a swift and thorough investigation, assigning the Songkhla provincial police chief to personally oversee the case. He has also instructed special operations teams to crack down on any influential figures or groups attempting to act above the law.

 

Start at the top & work downwards ................LOL

[Gottfrid]

8 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Efforts are underway to persuade them to surrender to the police.

Persuade? Isn´t it just to go arrest them? Oh sorry, forgot. The RTP is too busy!

[KireB]

So who is this MP?

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Son of Democrat MP Surrenders to Police Over Assault on Officer at Songkhla Polling Station

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

A man wanted in connection with the assault of a police officer during local elections in Songkhla has turned himself in to authorities, accompanied by his father, a sitting Member of Parliament.

 

At 12:30 on 12 May, Mr Siradon Phlaiduang, 28, known locally as “Sajor Golf,” arrived at Mueang Songkhla Police Station alongside his father, Mr Somyot Phlaiduang, Democrat Party MP for Songkhla’s Constituency 3. Mr Siradon is among seven suspects named in arrest warrants following the violent incident, which took place at a polling station in Phawong Subdistrict.

 

The case involves the assault of Pol. Sgt. Nisatit Kongthep, an officer attached to Border Patrol Police Company 43, who was reportedly injured while attempting to prevent unauthorised photography at Polling Station 7 during the municipal elections for Phawong Subdistrict Municipality.

 

Mr Siradon, who declined to speak to reporters, was led alone into the interrogation room as officers prepared his arrest record. His father briefly addressed the media, stating: “I’ve brought my son in to show that he is innocent.”

 

Police confirmed that of the seven suspects named in the warrant, six have now presented themselves to the authorities. Five of them , Mr Rapeepong “Aon” Sawatchookaew (40), Mr Numsek “Khao” Thongsri (34), Mr Jakkrapong “Jak” Thepchoom (45), Mr Sarayut “Not” Noochaikaew (32), and Mr Pongthep “Nueng Freedom” Wadwilai (41), have been detained. Mr Pongthep remains at large.

 

Another suspect, Mr Yotsaran Sangaban-Khok, also known as “Bang Jai,” aged 38, has not yet been apprehended and is still being sought by police.

 

According to investigators, Mr Siradanai faces two charges:

 

Participating with three or more persons in using force or weapons to resist or obstruct an officer performing official duties

 

Instructing others to commit an offence against an officer acting under legal authority

 

The remaining six suspects face the same first charge and a second charge of physically assaulting an officer acting within their official capacity. The investigation has so far revealed that instructions were allegedly given via mobile phone and that one suspect had stored a firearm at a family residence.

 

Police have strongly opposed bail for all seven individuals, citing the seriousness of the offence and risk of evidence tampering.

 

Meanwhile, the Election Commission has publicly condemned the use of violence against election officials, urging that the matter be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.

 

The Democrat Party has sought to distance itself from the incident, with senior figures asserting that it is a personal matter involving the MP’s son and not related to the party’s activities.

 

The investigation continues as police move forward with legal proceedings against those involved.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khomchadluek 2025-05-13.

 

 

[JoePai]

Poor little boy needs his daddy   🤣

[Denim]

4 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

“I’ve brought my son in to show that he is innocent.”

 

Innocent of what ?  Dating a ladyboy or something.  Bloke was caught bang to rights and now his dad wants to whitewash the whole thing.  These are the kind of scum wanting to represent the local people ? I think not. Self interest their only interest.

[ikke1959]

Daddy had to come with him for the show and to arrange "his innocence" by talking with the high ranked officer .... Soon he will be walk around freely and a new car can be spotted in Songkla...

[Yagoda]

In most places in the USA, the line "do you know who I am" or "do you know who my Daddy is?" guarantees you arent getting off the hook. Its all on camera these days.

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Councillor Golf and Associates Denied Bail Over Polling Day Assault

 

Pictures courtesy of Amarin.

 

A Songkhla provincial court has denied bail to local councillor Siradon Phlaiduang, widely known as “Councillor Golf”, and seven of his associates, following their arrest for the alleged assault of a police officer during municipal elections on 11 May.

 

The court ruled that the case is of serious public concern, involving a violent attack on a police officer during the performance of official duties. It cited fears of witness tampering and the audacious nature of the alleged offence as reasons for refusing temporary release. All eight men were immediately remanded to Songkhla Provincial Prison.

 

The incident took place at Polling Station 7 in Moo 2, Phawong Subdistrict, Mueang Songkhla District, during voting for the Phawong subdistrict mayor and council. The victim, Police Senior Sergeant Major Nisathit Kongthep of Border Patrol Police Company 43, was providing election security when he was reportedly set upon by the group at the direction of Mr Phlaiduang.

Siradon Phlaiduang, 28, is the son of Democrat Party MP Somyot Phlaiduang, who represents Songkhla’s Constituency 3 and serves as the party’s deputy secretary-general. The case has cast a political shadow over the Democrat Party, although MP Somyot has denied any involvement and condemned the use of violence.

 

The suspects, escorted under heavy police guard from Mueang Songkhla Police Station to court, were named as follows:

 

1. Mr Siradon Phlaiduang (Councillor Golf), 28

2. Mr Phongthep Wadwilai (alias Nueng Freedom), 41

3. Mr Numsek Thongsri, 34

4. Mr Rapeepong Sawatchookaew, 40

5. Mr Jakkrapong Thepchoom, 45

6. Mr Sasarun Sangaobankok, 38

7. Mr Sarayut Noochaikaew, 32

 

The group faces three serious charges:

 

1. Acting together in a group to violently obstruct an officer in the performance of duty, including use of weapons;

2. Assaulting an officer during official duty;

3. Participating in a criminal gang.

 

When approached by reporters as he was led to the transport vehicle, Mr Phlaiduang remained tight-lipped. From inside the van, he briefly called out, “I didn’t do it.” Asked whether he had ordered the attack, he shook his head but did not respond further.

 

Public backlash over the incident has been swift. On 13 May, a civic representative submitted a petition to the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO), calling for an urgent ethics investigation. Calls have mounted for Mr Phlaiduang to be suspended from office pending the outcome of legal proceedings.

 

PAO President Supit Pitaktham acknowledged the public’s concerns but maintained the incident was a private legal matter, not a political one. He also stated that there has been no coordination with MP Somyot and clarified that despite Mr Phlaiduang’s involvement with the PAO’s “New Songkhla Power” team, there is no formal political link between his organisation and the Democrat Party.

 

In a statement released yesterday, MP Somyot expressed regret over the incident and insisted that the law must take its course. “I do not support violence in any form,” he wrote. “Let the justice system proceed without interference or bias.”

 

The case continues to be closely monitored by both the media and the public, as questions grow over political influence, election security and the accountability of local officials.

 

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-15.

 

 

 

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Songkhla Governor Returns ‘Golf’ Disciplinary Case to Provincial Council Amid Assault Allegations

 

Picture courtesy of Workpoint.

 

The Governor of Songkhla has formally returned the case of embattled councillor Mr Siradon Phlaidoung, widely known as ‘Golf’, to the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) Council for disciplinary proceedings, urging it to act in accordance with the law.

 

This follows the council’s request that the Governor intervene in the matter, after Mr Siradon was detained over serious allegations of ordering the assault of a police officer at a polling station.

 

Mr Siradon, a member of the PAO, is currently being held at Songkhla Provincial Prison following accusations that he directed subordinates to physically attack Pol Sgt Nisathit Khonthaep, a border patrol officer, during election duties in Phawong subdistrict on 11 May. The officer had reportedly instructed the group not to take photographs inside the polling station, as per election regulations.

 

Mr Arm Suwanraksa, a local civil society representative, filed a formal complaint on 13 May, prompting calls for an investigation into Mr Siradon’s ethical and political conduct. The councillor now faces multiple charges including:

 

• Inciting three or more people to use force against an official while armed

• Coordinating an assault on a public official on duty

• Criminal association

 

According to the PAO Act of 1997, removing a councillor on ethical grounds requires a petition signed by at least one-third of council members (12 out of 36), followed by a vote passed with a three-quarters majority. The accused must also be present to defend themselves. However, Mr Siradon’s detention has rendered his participation impossible.

 

The PAO Council thus referred the matter to Governor Chotinarin Kerdsom for a ruling on whether Mr Siradon could remain in office. In response, the Governor stated that while he retains authority under Section 77 of the PAO Act to supervise local administrations, the matter of ethical removal lies solely with the council.

 

Governor Chotinarin affirmed that provincial authorities are working closely with the Ministry of Interior and law enforcement to ensure due process and justice.

 

In a separate but related issue, suspicions have emerged regarding the authenticity of Mr Siradon’s academic qualifications. Allegations suggest he may have submitted a forged Malaysian university degree when filing his candidacy. The Governor has ordered the local Election Commission to investigate, with the Ministry of Education tasked with verifying the institution in question. Should the degree prove fraudulent, further criminal charges may be filed under Thai election and fraud laws.

 

Meanwhile, Mr Siradon and seven co-accused, including his close aides, spent their first night in the quarantine section of Songkhla Provincial Prison. The Songkhla Provincial Court denied bail, citing concerns over witness interference and the severity of the charges.

 

Prison officials reported that the detainees showed mild signs of stress but otherwise ate normally and were cooperative. They will remain in quarantine until after prison authorities determine their placement pending trial. To prevent potential safety risks associated with their perceived influence, the prison has assigned special monitoring staff and will consider segregating them from the general population.

 

Relatives will be permitted to visit the detainees from 19 May, while lawyers have daily access for legal consultations.

 

The case is being closely watched by both provincial and national authorities due to its political and legal implications.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-05-16.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[ikke1959]

And papa  should step down as a sign that family of MP and high ranked officers have to behave according to their job..

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
High-Profile Assault Case Involving “ Golf” Transferred to Crime Suppression Division

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

The high-profile assault case involving Mr. Siradon Plai-duang, widely known as Sorsor (Provincial Council Member) Golf, has been formally transferred to Thailand’s Crime Suppression Division (CSD) following widespread public scrutiny and concerns over potential local interference.

 

Mr. Siradon, the son of Democrat MP Somyos Plai-duang (Ko Guek), is accused of leading an assault on Police Senior Sergeant Major Nisatit Kongthep, an officer with Border Patrol Police Unit 43, during election duty in Phawong Subdistrict, Mueang Songkhla, on 11 May. According to police, the officer was attacked by a group of seven men, allegedly under Siradon’s orders, after he forbade photography at the polling station.

 

The suspects were charged with four serious offences, including premeditated assault of an officer on duty, resisting arrest using weapons, unlawful assembly, and membership in a criminal gang. The Songkhla Provincial Court denied bail, and all seven men, including Siradon, were remanded to Songkhla Provincial Prison.

 

Due to the high-profile nature of the case and concerns over influence and fairness, Provincial Police Region 9 submitted an urgent request to National Police Commissioner General Kitirat Phanphet to transfer the investigation to central authorities. The case (Criminal Case 513/2568) is now under the jurisdiction of the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), which will act as the primary investigative body. Should further suspects or offences be uncovered, the CSD will have full authority to proceed with expanded investigations.

 

At a press conference, Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridej, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, confirmed the case transfer and assured the public of a thorough and impartial process. He emphasised that the case, involving alleged abuse of power by an influential local figure, fits squarely within the CSD’s remit.

 

The case continues to draw intense public interest, with many questioning whether justice will be served without fear or favour. Authorities have vowed full transparency and commitment to the rule of law.

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from ThaiRath 2025-05-17.

 

 

 

[JoePai]

That will rub the smirk off his face 

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Songkhla Provincial Council Moves to Oust Councillor “Golf” as Police Reveal Trove of Amulets in Seized Safe

 

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

The Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) has taken the first formal steps toward removing Councillor Siradon “Golf” Plaiduang from office, amid mounting legal trouble following his alleged involvement in a violent assault on a border patrol officer during last week’s election.

 

Photographs of the embattled councillor have already been taken down from official display boards across the council’s offices, leaving only a single image from his first council meeting in uniform. The PAO is now preparing for a special session to vote on his removal, expected within 15 days. To initiate the session, at least one-third of the 36-member council, must sign a petition. Signatures began being collected today, and officials are expected to finalise the list of signatories within a day.

 

The move follows the highly publicised incident on 11 May, in which Siradon allegedly ordered subordinates to physically assault a border patrol officer who was providing security at a polling station in Phawong subdistrict, Mueang Songkhla district.

 

Meanwhile, in the criminal investigation, police have opened a safe seized from Siradon’s residence. The operation was witnessed by Siradon and his father, Somyos Plaiduang, a Democrat MP for Songkhla’s 3rd district. Inside the black “PILOT” safe, investigators found a staggering array of valuable religious artefacts and jewellery.

 

The inventory includes a large collection of amulets, particularly numerous gold-framed images of the revered monk Luang Pu Thuad, as well as gold necklaces, bracelets and other religious and superstitious items. Notable contents include:

 

• Several gold-encased Luang Pu Thuad amulets, including famous “iron-shaped” backings and small figurines

• Amulets from Wat Laem Sai and other temples

• Rare medals of revered monks such as Luang Pho Khong

• Figurines and artefacts linked to Thai folk spirituality, such as images and charms associated with the child spirit “Ai Khai”

• Children’s gold jewellery, including bracelets, anklets, and rings

• Unique items such as a stingray tail bone, a miniature golden bell, and silver pendants

 

Police confirmed the list was verified by both Siradon and his father and documented thoroughly in their presence.

 

Deputy Election Commission Director for Songkhla, Pol. Lt. Col. Somnuk Kullmanee, confirmed that the national legal team of the Election Commission of Thailand is reviewing whether Siradon’s actions could constitute obstruction of electoral officials, a serious offence under election law. A formal complaint could be filed as early as this week, depending on the outcome of the legal review.

 

In the meantime, Siradon and six associates remain in custody at Songkhla Provincial Prison. Authorities are considering transferring them to a detention facility in Bangkok as investigations continue.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-20.

 

 

 

 

[phil2407]

Why do they need his safe if charged with assault & removal from the council? 

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Crime Suppression Police Raid Seven Sites in Songkhla, Arrest Two More in Police Assault Case

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) launched coordinated raids on seven locations in Songkhla province on 20 May, arresting two additional suspects linked to a violent mob attack on a border patrol officer earlier this month. The incident, allegedly orchestrated by local political figure Siradon Phlaiduang, known as “Sor. Golf”, continues to draw national attention.

 

Under orders from Pol. Col. Anake Taosuphab, deputy commander of the CSD, and Pol. Col. Anusorn Thongsai, acting commander of Subdivision 6, officers searched properties across Mueang district. The operation aimed to dismantle the network of influence associated with Sor. Golf, a notorious figure accused of ordering his subordinates to assault a police officer on duty.

 

The initial attack occurred as Pol. Sgt. Nisatit Kongthep, a border patrol officer, was providing security at a local election polling station in Phawong subdistrict. He was brutally assaulted by a group allegedly acting under Sor. Golf’s direction.

 

The two newly arrested suspects, Mr. Faisol 27 and Mr. Ananop 37, were apprehended on court warrants issued on 19 May. Both face charges of premeditated assault on a law enforcement officer, armed resistance to authorities, and participating in a criminal gang. Officers also recovered clothing worn during the attack and mobile phones.

 

Faisol was arrested near Phawong subdistrict, while Ananop was taken into custody outside his residence in Khao Rup Chang subdistrict, both within Mueang Songkhla.

 

Pol. Col. Anake stated that investigations revealed the two men were present during the assault, acting as lookouts while other members of the group attacked the officer. Evidence includes witness testimonies and CCTV footage from the vicinity.

 

Both suspects partially admitted to being present at the scene and travelling with the group but denied direct involvement in the physical attack. They have been transferred to Subdivision 6 investigators for further legal proceedings.

 

Meanwhile, the CSD is coordinating the transfer of Sor. Golf and seven earlier-arrested associates from Songkhla Provincial Prison to the Bangkok Remand Prison. The transfer is expected to be completed within a week and is aimed at streamlining the ongoing legal process.

 

The case continues to highlight issues of political influence and organised violence in southern Thailand, as authorities widen their investigation into the extent of Sor. Golf’s criminal operations.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khasod 2025-05-21.

 

 

 

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Related developments.

 

Cyber Police Raid Home of Local Councillor ‘Sor Golf’ in Major Online Gambling Crackdown

 

 

 

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Songkhla Council Member “Sor Golf” Faces New Charges Amid Silence on Removal Proceedings

 

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation Council Member Siradon Phlaiduang, better known as “Sor Golf”, is facing additional criminal charges in a deepening scandal that has put local authorities under scrutiny for their inaction. 

 

The Election Commission (EC) is now preparing to file a new complaint, while the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is monitoring the conduct of the Songkhla Provincial Council, which has yet to convene a meeting to consider his removal.

 

The controversy stems from a violent incident on 11 May, in which Mr Siradon allegedly ordered six subordinates to assault Pol Sgt Nisatit Kongthep, a border patrol officer assigned to polling station security in Songkhla’s Muang District. All seven individuals now face charges including assaulting a public official while performing duties, using weapons, and forming a criminal gang. The case has been transferred to the Crime Suppression Division for further investigation.

 

Further complicating the situation, Mr Siradon has been linked to the WINGAME98 online gambling network, which is under investigation by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB). Authorities estimate that the illegal operation generated over 200 million baht. Arrest warrants have been issued for 18 individuals, with four apprehended to date. Investigators are actively pursuing financial trails and additional suspects connected to the network, which has been in operation since 2022.

 

Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Council has remained silent. No members have yet signed a petition to convene a special session to discuss Mr Siradon’s removal, which would require signatures from at least one-third of the 36-member council (12 members). This is in spite of prior communication from the NACC urging the council to uphold its responsibilities under the 1997 Provincial Administrative Organisation Act.

 

Lt Col Somnuek Kulmanee, director of the Songkhla EC office, confirmed that the central EC has authorised him to file a new complaint for obstruction of election duties, an offence in which the EC considers itself a co-victim. The filing must be made with the Crime Suppression Division, which is now handling the main investigation.

 

Mr Siradon, who received the highest vote count in the most recent PAO elections, is also under investigation for alleged vote-buying through hosting campaign-related banquets. The Songkhla EC has completed its preliminary inquiry into the matter and is preparing to submit its findings to the central EC.

 

NACC provincial director Ram Wasuthanaphinyoyo stressed that no individual is above the law and urged the Songkhla PAO council to act in accordance with its legal duties. While the NACC cannot directly order a dismissal, it is closely monitoring the situation. Mr Ram noted the public interest in the case and emphasised the need for swift action to preserve the integrity of the local administration.

 

Although the law does not mandate a strict timeline for the removal process, pressure is mounting for the council to act. The provincial governor, in his supervisory role, has reportedly already issued directives. Ultimately, it falls to the council to decide whether Mr Siradon should remain in office or be removed, but the council must follow legal procedures and respond to the expectations of the public.

 

“This case goes beyond legality, it concerns public ethics and the reputation of the Songkhla PAO,” said Mr Ram. “Whatever the outcome, the council must provide answers to the public.”

 

Related Article:

https://aseannow.com/topic/1361505-cyber-police-raid-home-of-local-councillor-‘sor-golf’-in-major-online-gambling-crackdown/

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-24.

 

 

 

[JoePai]

Excellent news

[Georgealbert]

UPDATE
Election Commission Confirms Councillor’s Degree Is Genuine Amid Broader Investigations

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

The Songkhla Election Commission has confirmed that the academic qualifications submitted by Provincial Councillor Siradanai Plaiduang, commonly known as “Sor Golf”, are authentic following a formal investigation triggered by public concern.

 

The probe was launched after Mr. Chotinarin Kerdsom, Governor of Songkhla, along with the Department of Provincial Administration, local agencies and members of the public, requested that the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT) verify Councillor Golf’s academic credentials used in his candidacy for the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) representing Hat Yai’s District 7.

 

There had been widespread suspicion that Mr. Siradanai had submitted a falsified degree certificate to qualify for the election, prompting calls for criminal proceedings and removal from office if the allegations proved true.

 

Pol. Lt. Col. Somnuek Kulmanee, Director of the Songkhla Provincial Election Commission, confirmed that an investigation had been conducted. Mr. Siradanai had submitted a bachelor’s degree from a university in Nakhon Si Thammarat as part of his application. The Election Commission formally contacted the university, which verified that Mr. Siradanai had indeed graduated, using a valid high school diploma from Thailand’s Non-Formal and Informal Education (NFE) programme.

 

The NFE institution also confirmed the authenticity of his secondary education qualification in a separate letter to the commission. The Election Commission concluded that there were no irregularities concerning his educational background.

 

However, the case does not end there. Mr. Siradanai remains under investigation in separate legal matters. Notably, Thailand’s Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau has reportedly issued an arrest warrant linking him to illegal online gambling operations, with clear financial trails allegedly connecting him to direct profits from the platforms.

 

The Election Commission has stated it will continue to cooperate with law enforcement and relevant agencies in addressing any further allegations or legal breaches involving Mr. Siradanai.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-25.

 

 

 

[JoePai]

One needs a bachelor’s degree to be a Councillor ??