Investigation centres on allegations that gold bars were offered to influence cases tied to online gambling networks, as former deputy police chief awaits a crucial court ruling
Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has taken a significant procedural step in a high-profile bribery investigation after police formally transferred a completed case file linked to allegations involving former deputy national police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn. The development adds fresh momentum to a case that has drawn sustained public and political attention due to its alleged links to online gambling investigations and senior law enforcement figures.
According to local reports, the file was submitted to the NACC on January 5. Surapong Intarathawon, deputy secretary general and acting secretary general of the commission, confirmed that the dossier identifies six suspects and focuses on claims that gold bars were offered as bribes to influence proceedings connected to investigations into illegal online gambling networks. The allegations form part of a broader scrutiny of corruption risks within Thailand’s enforcement and regulatory institutions.
Following receipt of the investigation materials, the NACC convened a meeting on January 6 to address potential conflicts of interest within its own structure. The commission resolved to reassign one of its Commissioners who has been accused in connection with the case. The Commissioner was removed from supervisory duties over two bureaus directly involved in the investigation, and Commissioner Phatsak Wannsang was appointed to assume those responsibilities in the interim. The reassignment was framed as an administrative measure aimed at safeguarding the integrity and impartiality of the inquiry.
Earlier on the same day, police held a detailed press briefing outlining evidence they claim links Surachate to the alleged bribery attempt. Investigators stated that the case involves gold bars weighing approximately 3.7 kilograms. Among the materials cited were video recordings allegedly showing Pol. Col. Phakphum Phitsamai, described as a close aide to Surachate, delivering the gold to the driver of a black Toyota Alphard assigned to an NACC Commissioner. Police said the Commissioner was inside the vehicle at the time of the delivery.
Authorities also pointed to receipts for the gold purchase and audio recordings that reportedly reference “Joke” , Surachate’s widely known nickname, as well as the weight of the gold. Investigators emphasized that Phakphum provided the recordings as part of formal legal proceedings and not in exchange for leniency or other benefits.
Surachate has consistently denied any wrongdoing, both in relation to the bribery allegations and to accusations tied to online gambling networks. He has been suspended from duty since April 2024 and is currently awaiting a pivotal ruling from Thailand’s Supreme Administrative Court on January 9. That decision will determine whether his removal from office was lawful, with potentially decisive consequences for his future in the police force, either clearing a path for reinstatement as deputy police chief or bringing his law enforcement career to an end.
