National Anti-Corruption Commission and Interior Ministry Investigate Chinese National's Thai ID Citizenship, Trace Lineage Back to Grandfather's Generation

The National Anti-Corruption Commission and Interior Ministry have investigated a Chinese national's Thai citizenship documentation, with preliminary findings showing no legal violations. Online media sparked controversy by publishing an identity card belonging to Cheng Zhao Wu, registered in Bangkok's Bang Khae District, raising questions about his connection to a Chachoengsao weapons case and how a Chinese citizen obtained Thai identification. Initial investigations revealed that Cheng Zhao Wu received his Thai identity card through proper procedures via nationality verification, with his family obtaining Thai citizenship dating back to his grandfather's generation. Cheng himself acquired Thai nationality in 2008 and operates a phone equipment wholesale and retail business, denying any knowledge of another individual mentioned in connection with the case. On May 11, 2025, at 11:40 a.m., anti-corruption officials led by Secretary-General Pumiwisai Kasemsukon and Deputy Secretary-General Siripong Sritula, along with Interior Ministry representatives, visited Bang Khae District office to investigate the identity card's issuance. District Director Tianchai Wongsuwan explained the legal procedures and supporting documents dating back to 2008, noting that officials at that time reviewed immigration documents and blood relationship evidence for paternal nationality verification. Tianchai clarified that previous statements to media merely explained existing documents without confirming legal compliance, as the incident occurred over a decade ago. The district is currently investigating only Cheng Zhao Wu's case due to its public exposure, with other relevant documents requiring coordination with the Interior Ministry and relevant registration offices. Regarding the possibility of retroactively investigating other foreign nationals with similar cases, Tianchai stated that procedures from a decade ago cannot be easily verified, but the news prompted officials to review the original case files. Police confirmed that Cheng Zhao Wu's case has no connection to a Chachoengsao weapons and explosives case, though they did not verify the legal validity of his identity card. Officials who processed the 2008 case have since retired, and there is currently insufficient grounds to summon them for testimony unless central authorities issue specific orders.