Phuket MP Seeks Delay in DSI Witness Summons Over Property Nominee Case
Phuket MP Somchai Tetchawarajaroen has requested a delay in his DSI witness summons regarding a property nominee investigation, citing parliamentary budget debates scheduled for early September. The DSI is investigating whether he violated
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) Security Crimes Division has been investigating Somchai Tetchawarajaroen, a Phuket Member of Parliament from the Thai People's Party, over evidence suggesting his involvement as a shareholder and director in a private company holding real estate and condominium units in Phuket in partnership with foreign nationals. The division is investigating whether any individuals violated land law provisions, particularly nominee regulations.
The DSI issued a witness summons for Somchai to provide testimony and information on August 31, 2024, but he claimed he did not receive the document. A second summons was issued for September 7, 2024. However, Somchai submitted a letter requesting to postpone his testimony until the end of September, citing mandatory attendance at parliamentary sessions scheduled for September 7–9 to debate the 2025 fiscal budget bill, as well as field commitments.
The investigation team noted concern about the repeated postponements, especially since Somchai had previously expressed willingness to cooperate. While the team did not object to one postponement, they are unlikely to approve an extension until the end of September. The team is considering scheduling another summons for an earlier date. Somchai has maintained he did not intend to avoid cooperation but has conflicting official duties.
