Phuket Governor Replaces Volunteer Force Over Bribery Allegations
Phuket's governor has disbanded a volunteer police unit in Thalang District following bribery allegations that officers were extorting money at drug checkpoints, replacing it with two new units while investigations continue.
On September 20, Phuket Governor Chotinarin Kerdsomwang disclosed complaints about the conduct of members of the Territorial Defense Volunteer Corps (Asan) in Thalang District, Phuket. The allegations emerged on social media, accusing officers of operating a drug checkpoint where they allegedly demanded cash payments in exchange for releasing suspects.
Governor Chotinarin stated that the Thalang District Officer has already reassigned staff responsibilities. The province is conducting a factual investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. The governor is awaiting statements from alleged victims to confirm details and support the investigation.
To ensure proper operations during the investigation, the original volunteer unit has been disbanded and replaced with two new units comprising approximately 30 personnel total. This reorganization aims to maintain continuous public order and safety operations in the area.
The governor emphasized that the province takes all complaints seriously and conducts investigations based on facts, evidence, and legal procedures to ensure fairness for all parties involved.
