Police Commission to Question MP Over Alleged Foreign Nominee Property Scheme

The Parliamentary Police Commission is preparing to summon the Department of Special Investigation to examine allegations that a Phuket opposition MP is connected to a financial network involving nominee companies. Watchrajpong Kuwichitsuwan, chairman of the Police Commission and a Samut Prakan MP from the Bhumjaithai Party, revealed that the DSI is preparing to question Somchai Tetchawarawarin, known as Lawyer Kaeng and a Phuket MP from the People's Party, following discovery of his involvement in financial flows through legal entities alleged to be nominees. The companies, in which he reportedly holds shares and serves as authorized director in over 30 firms, lack genuine business operations but focus on holding land and condominium units valued at more than 100 million baht jointly with foreign nationals. The Police Commission will summon the DSI director and relevant officials to verify whether these activities occurred, whether the case should be accepted as a special case, and whether legal violations or nominee arrangements for foreigners apply. Watchrajpong stated that the People's Party should investigate the matter seriously, just as it examines political opponents, and should not allow the suspect to face consequences alone without the party taking responsibility. He urged Somchai to come forward, clarify his position, and not remain silent, as silence suggests an attempt to conceal wrongdoing. Watchrajpong emphasized that if nominee behavior for foreigners is confirmed, it would set a poor example and suggest disregard for the law. He noted that government policy, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the Interior Minister, aims to crack down seriously on such schemes as they pose threats to national security and sovereignty, as well as social and economic stability.