Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has launched an investigation into former national police chief Torsak Sukvimol, also known as “Big Tor”, over allegations of bribery and money laundering tied to an illegal online gambling network called BNK Master. As reported by the Bangkok Post on December 17, Torsak is accused of laundering money through the operation. His former deputy and longtime rival, Surachate Hakparn (nicknamed “Big Joke”), is also under suspicion, though formal charges against him have yet to be filed.
Corruption Allegations Date Back to 2023
Concerns over misconduct within the Royal Thai Police (RTP) and internal disputes have been escalating for months. The controversy traces back to 2023, when both Torsak and Surachate were competing for the top police position. However, Surachate’s bid was derailed following allegations that he was involved in laundering money through illegal gambling networks.
In September 2023, authorities raided Surachate’s residence in Bangkok in an operation called “Cleaning Day.” While the case did not progress, the raid damaged his reputation, allowing Torsak to secure the national police chief role. Surachate later claimed the raid was a deliberate smear campaign.
By March 2024, former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin suspended both Torsak and Surachate, placing them on inactive duty due to growing tensions within the RTP. A special committee was formed to investigate the situation. Both officers were later reinstated, but in October 2024, Torsak left office and was replaced by Kitrat Panphet, who now serves as national police chief under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
The NACC now believes there is sufficient evidence to move forward with corruption charges against Torsak, but further investigation is needed before it can take formal action against Surachate.
Former Prime Minister Cleared in Appointment Controversy
In a related development, the NACC cleared former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of any wrongdoing in his decision to appoint Torsak as police chief. Surachate had previously accused Srettha of violating the RTP Act by choosing Big Tor over him.
However, NACC spokesperson Saroj Phuengramphan confirmed that investigators found no evidence of misconduct or external influence in the selection process.
Srettha was later removed from office in August 2024 after appointing Pichit Chuenban, a former convict, to a cabinet position. Pichit had previously served time for attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials.
As the investigation into Torsak and Surachate unfolds, Thailand’s police force remains under scrutiny, with growing calls for transparency and accountability.
