Interior Ministry Orders Nakhon Si Thammarat Governor to Investigate Bribery Claims for Territorial Defense Volunteer Exam; Reaffirms No Recruitment Since 2024
A Territorial Defense Volunteer member in Nakhon Si Thammarat allegedly demanded 300,000 baht in bribes for exam help, prompting the Interior Ministry to order an immediate investigation into the extortion claims.
On May 1, 2025, Orsitthisak Somphanrat, Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry, addressed online social media reports alleging that a Territorial Defense Volunteer member in Chuang District demanded 300,000 baht in bribes for exam assistance, though the applicant was never actually a member. The complainant recovered only 230,000 baht and has pursued the remaining 70,000 baht for four years while facing threats.
The Permanent Secretary ordered the Nakhon Si Thammarat governor to immediately investigate the facts and address public concerns, as the allegations severely damage the government's reputation. Governor Somchai Seelaanoi reported that on April 30, the complainant filed a petition at the Provincial Ombudsman's Office regarding the extortion claim. The governor has directed responsible officials to verify the facts, protect involved parties, and question all Chuang District volunteer members about the incident.
Preliminary findings show no evidence of bribery by any Territorial Defense Volunteer member in Chuang District. Importantly, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province has not opened recruitment for volunteer membership positions since 2024. The Permanent Secretary stressed the urgency of this investigation, noting its significant impact on administrative credibility and the Interior Ministry's image. He emphasized that the province must rapidly complete all legal procedures while simultaneously conducting public relations efforts to inform the general public of the true facts.
