Anti-Corruption Probe Accelerates in Civil Service Exam Fraud Case

The National Anti-Corruption Commission has tasked the Police Enforcement Division with joining a special investigation committee into fraud connected with civil service and local government recruitment exams. Deputy Commander-in-Chief Natthasak Chaowasiday stated that the anti-corruption agency has sent back some documents for police to conduct further investigation on multiple issues. The police will therefore accelerate action based on evidence provided by the commission and compile work results to send back for the agency's consideration, requesting time for investigators to conduct additional inquiries. The deputy commander also indicated that clear case progress is expected by late August to early September 2026, particularly regarding intermediaries and those behind the scenes. The anti-corruption office previously reported that from compiled information and evidence, there was credible basis to believe a former director-general of the Department of Local Government Promotion and associates were involved, having altered test scores and solicited money from exam candidates to help them pass. Sufficient evidence exists to prosecute those involved in the corruption. The matter is of national significance, draws public interest, and has widespread impact, warranting classification as a special case. The anti-corruption committee was asked to accept it as a special investigation case. Evidence gathered by the enforcement division has led to charges against the former director-general and associates—13 people total—with further pursuit of intermediaries and masterminds underway. The Interior Ministry's review of those who passed found 5,925 answer sheets had been altered, resulting in invalidation and dismissal from government service, with criminal proceedings being prepared. This local government corruption scandal is a significant civil service controversy believed to involve a large-scale national network. The anti-corruption commission has elevated it to special case status and drawn the police enforcement division into the special investigation committee. Public hopes that beyond the initial 13 suspects, higher-level masterminds will be identified.