Department of Corrections Orders Dismissal and Serious Disciplinary Probe of Bangkok Special Prison Officials Over VIP Inmate Services

The Department of Corrections announced on May 3, 2569 that it is pursuing strict disciplinary action and anti-corruption measures following the National Human Rights Commission's investigation into complaints of special VIP treatment given to Chinese inmates at Bangkok Special Prison, which constituted discrimination and human rights violations. The Justice Ministry issued Order 240/2568 on November 24, 2568 establishing a serious disciplinary investigation committee for the prison commander and his personal secretary, with immediate suspension from duty pending the outcome of a transparent and fair investigation. Further investigation revealed that the involved officials engaged in extortion by deliberately overlooking disciplinary and criminal violations committed by inmates, including possession of mobile phones—constituting serious misconduct. The Department subsequently reported to the Justice Ministry, which issued Order 1562/2568 on November 28, 2568 establishing a serious disciplinary investigation committee for staff members involved in demanding benefits related to inmate contraband phones and those who improperly facilitated attorney visits in exchange for compensation. Criminal evidence has been submitted to the DSI, whose investigation is now complete and forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission for legal proceedings. The Department of Corrections emphasizes that all actions are based on evidence and civil service regulations without favoritism, and has instructed all prisons nationwide to strictly comply with the Corrections Act B.E. 2560 and relevant procedures to ensure equal, transparent, and dignified treatment of all inmates.