Local Exam Fraud Suspect Refuses Questioning in Thailand Case
A municipal director and university advisor were arrested for allegedly altering civil service exam scores, though the director refuses questioning while the advisor confirmed receiving exam data before it was sent for manipulation.
The anti-corruption police unit disclosed investigative progress in a civil service recruitment exam fraud case following the arrest of three suspects: Maj. Dr. Phichit Thangprom, director of strategy and budget at Wichian Buri Municipality in Phetchabun Province; Dr. Aswin Chotiphanan, an advisor at Kasetsart University; and Ms. Sataporn Thanphochrokhom, all currently detained by court order.
According to Deputy Commander Pattanasak Bubphasuwhan, initial suspect Phichit has denied all charges and refused cooperation, even declining to answer basic personal questions. However, Dr. Aswin, while also denying involvement, provided useful information by confirming that he and Ms. Sataporn received exam data files from Phichit before forwarding them to individuals at a house in Bang Yai District, Nonthaburi, for alteration. Searches of nine locations yielded no additional key evidence.
Investigators plan to seek approval from their commanding officers to summon 15 people found at the targeted house to hear charges, pending clearance from the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Authorities also intend to question all approximately 5,000 people who passed the exam and were hired, potentially requesting nationwide police participation. The NACC retains primary responsibility for the main case, though the anti-corruption unit stands ready to provide full support if requested.
