Crime Phuket Corruption Scandal: Deputy Mayor Jailed, Others Appeal

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File photo of Photo of Thaworn Chirapattanasophon

 

A corruption scandal rocks Phuket as Deputy Mayor Thaworn Chirapattanasophon is sentenced to four years in jail. This comes amid allegations linked to an incomplete construction project involving the Bang Yai Canal. Despite the project's failure, an unauthorised extension was greenlighted, resulting in severe governmental loss.

 

The case has garnered significant attention, with both local and national authorities delving into the details. During a press conference on June 24, Suwat Saowaran, Chief of the National Anti-Corruption Commission Phuket, opted to sidestep questions about Thaworn's sentencing or potential probation.

 

Assistant Secretary-General Suchart Kruakitanon summarised the commission’s third-quarter activities for fiscal year 2025 but offered scant additional information on the case.

 

Thaworn’s conviction stems from corruption charges tied to the project's mismanagement. The court found him guilty alongside four others, including Phuket’s Chief Administrative Officer, Thawatchai Thongmang, and Kriangsak Chuchatphong, Director of the Phuket City Municipality Engineering Department.

 

All have lodged appeals, leaving their legal futures hanging in the balance as the appeals process unfolds.

 

The National Anti-Corruption Commission indicted Thaworn and his associates under Sections 151 and 157 of the Criminal Code.

 

Suwat confirmed the charges, asserting they approved a project extension without legal grounds, causing financial harm to the state. He added, “The investigation found the project was not completed as agreed, and an extension was granted without reasonable cause. Legal action was necessary.”

 

As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on the outcomes of the appeals and the broader implications for Phuket’s governance and infrastructure projects. The verdict's impact on local politics and trust in public officials is yet to be fully realised.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-26

 

 

[ChrisY1]

Is there anything in Phuket that doesn't have corruption installed?

[StandardIssue]

What? Corruption practiced by government officials in Phuket? My word, this is unthinkable!

 

I'm moving to Pattaya where the government officials are above board and play by the book.

[JimHuaHin]

Corruption is everywhere in Thailand - Thai civil service job = license to enrich oneself.