The Bangkok Post reported that former Thai National Police Chief Torsak Sukvimol, also known as "Big Tor," has been implicated in money laundering activities related to an online gambling network called "BNK Master."
Torsak's former deputy police chief and long-time rival, Surachate Hakparn, also known as "Big Joke," faces similar allegations, though he has not been formally charged.
Allegations surfaced for the first time in 2023
The investigation was announced on December 16, following months of speculation about misconduct within the Royal Thai Police (RTP) and internal strife at the top levels.
Last year, both Torsak and Surachate competed for the position of national president. Surachate fell out of favor due to allegations of money laundering related to illegal online gambling in Thailand.
According to the Associated Press, in September 2023, police raided Surachate's home in Bangkok to search for evidence. Although the case did not proceed, Surachate lost to Torsak and missed out on the top position; he later claimed that the raid, dubbed "Operation Clean Sweep," was part of a smear campaign.
In March, former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin suspended Torsak and Surachate from their duties and reassigned them to non-active roles. He later established a special committee to review the growing tensions within the Thai Revolution Party. Both eventually resumed their original positions. In October, Torsak stepped down, replaced by Kittirat Banphai, appointed by current Prime Minister Padungdan Sinawat.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission believes it has sufficient evidence to prosecute Torsak for corruption, but more evidence is needed before formally charging Surachate.
No misconduct in Srettha's appointments
In related news, the NACC has clarified that there was no misconduct in Srettha's appointment of Torsak. Surachate accused the former prime minister of choosing Big Tor over Big Joke, violating the RTP Act.
According to The Thaiger, NACC spokesperson Saroj Phuengramphan confirmed that the commission "found no evidence of misconduct or undue influence in the selection process."
Srettha was dismissed in August for appointing a cabinet member who had been imprisoned. The appointee, Pichit Chuenban, was convicted of attempting to bribe Supreme Court officials.
