Gold Bribery Scandal: NACC Staff Issue Second Appeal

Photo courtesy of Thai PBS

Staff at Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) have released a second statement urging the legal community to uphold ethical standards in the wake of a bribery scandal involving a former commissioner. Despite an initial demand for commissioner Ekkawit Watchawalku to resign, the request was ignored. Ekkawit has now been removed from his position as the NACC conducts an internal investigation.

The controversy began when Ekkawit was accused of accepting gold bars worth around ten million baht from Pol Col Phakphum Phisamai. The gold was allegedly handed over at a September 2024 event, purportedly as a bribe to influence an investigation involving former national police chief Surachate Hakparn. Surachate was under scrutiny by the NACC for suspected malfeasance related to online gambling networks.

Officials within the NACC have noted that their regulatory framework limits the actions they can take, emphasizing that silence should not be mistaken for inaction regarding the scandal. The call for Ekkawit’s resignation by NACC staff highlights the internal pressure for accountability amidst the allegations.

Experts assert that this incident underscores the necessity for rigorous ethical oversight within Thai governmental agencies. Legal professionals and watchdog organizations are being called to scrutinize the NACC’s use of power and ensure ethical compliance. The scandal serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in maintaining transparency and accountability in the public sector.

Moving forward, the outcome of the internal investigation will be crucial in determining the future of those implicated. The NACC's credibility hinges on the thoroughness and transparency of these proceedings. As the inquiry progresses, the Thai public and international observers will be watching closely for signals of reform and justice, reported Thai PBS.

Key Takeaways

• NACC staff urge ethical scrutiny in bribery case involving Ekkawit Watchawalku.

• Ekkawit accused of accepting gold to influence investigation into Surachate Hakparn.

• Internal investigation by NACC will be pivotal for agency credibility.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS 2026-01-13