The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) says it has gathered substantial evidence in a high-profile bribery case involving former deputy national police chief Surachate "Big Joke" Hakparn, with senior police officials set to brief the media on Jan 5.
Senior officers said the investigation centres on allegations that Pol Gen Surachate ordered the delivery of gold bars totalling 246 baht in weight (3.7 kilogrammes, worth about 15.75 million baht at prevailing prices) to a member of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) overseeing his case.
Authorities said the transactions were carried out through intermediaries in an attempt to conceal direct involvement.
Pol Maj Gen Jruykiat Pankaeo, deputy CIB commissioner, and Pol Maj Gen Prasong Chalampan, commander of the Anti-Corruption Division, said investigators have compiled extensive evidence, including CCTV footage, audio recordings, photographs, financial documents, and testimony from state officials and business operators.
Police believe the evidence is sufficient to support further legal action.
Pol Maj Gen Jruykiat said several key witnesses came forward after experiencing intimidation, assault and threats involving firearms.
Medical records documenting their injuries have been included in the case file.
Investigators have also widened the probe to examine the role of a university lecturer specialising in social media, who allegedly advised Pol Gen Surachate on public image management.
Police are assessing whether the individual took part in coordinated efforts to disseminate information intended to discredit rivals. This aspect of the investigation remains ongoing.
So far, police have issued summonses to three civilian suspects. Two individuals, including Pol Gen Surachate, have acknowledged the charges.
Cases involving serving NACC officials will proceed under a special legal mechanism.
Once evidence collection is complete, police will forward the case to the NACC, which may submit it to the House Speaker and the President of the Supreme Court to appoint an independent inquiry panel.
Pol Maj Gen Jruykiat said the law would be enforced impartially, adding the Royal Thai Police would not protect any officer found guilty, regardless of rank or institutional impact. Transparency, he said, is essential to restoring public confidence in the justice system.
