Thailand’s former Royal Thai Police (RTP) chief Pol General Torsak Sukvimol is under the radar of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for allegedly taking bribes from illegal gambling firms. Torsak, along with seven others, is accused of taking money from 18 gambling websites and other illicit businesses during his tenure as police chief between October 2023 and September 2024.

Torsak, also known as “Big Tor,” faces accusations of money laundering tied to an illegal online gambling network called “BNK Master.” Meanwhile, his former deputy, Pol General Surachate Hakparn, or “Big Joke,” is also accused of bribery and money laundering. However, the NACC said that it would need more evidence to formally charge Surachate.

The bribery allegations first emerged in 2023, when both officers were vying for the position of national police chief. Surachate’s changes were affected after he was accused of money laundering through illegal gambling. In September 2023, police raided his Bangkok residence as part of Operation Cleaning Day, but no charges were filed.

Following this, a rivalry began between the two and this escalated further when they were both suspended in March 2024 by then-prime minister Srettha Thavisin. Srettha also formed a committee to investigate tensions within the RTP. While both officers were reinstated later, Torsak stepped down in October, and Pol General Kitrat Phanphet replaced him as police chief.

NACC Secretary-General Sarote Phuengramphan confirmed that the commission is closely overseeing the inquiry and that it has gathered sufficient evidence, including witness testimonies, to proceed against Torsak.

At the same time, a probe into Surachate’s alleged involvement in bribery and money laundering is still ongoing. And, Sarote added that more information is required before any charges can be filed against Surachate.

NACC clears former PM of wrongdoing

Meanwhile, the NACC has cleared former prime minister Srettha Thavisin of misconduct in appointing Torsak as national police chief. Surachate had accused Srettha of violating the RTP Act by favouring Torsak over him.

NACC spokesperson Saroj Phuengramphan said, “The commission found no evidence of misconduct or undue influence in the selection process.”

Srettha was ousted in August 2024 after appointing Pichit Chuenban, a cabinet member who had previously been convicted of attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials.

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