Cigars, wine and improper visits alleged in Bangkok prison “special treatment” case

A Bangkok prison holding inmates of several nationalities has faced allegations of serious violations and preferential treatment for several Chinese prisoners. Following an internal tip, Thailand’s Department of Corrections conducted a surprise inspection and found unauthorised appliances, supplies and visitor arrangements. It ordered the warden and more than ten guards transferred and set up an investigating committee. According to preliminary findings released by the department, some inmates stayed in better-equipped areas with refrigerators, microwaves and portable air conditioners and received extra food, tobacco, alcohol and other prohibited items. Reports said some foreign women entered as relatives and had improper relations with inmates. Many of those involved were linked to cross-border crime and illicit business, with Chinese suspects forming the majority. The department said some appliances were labelled as donations or guards’ personal property but had become facilities reserved for particular prisoners. Prime Minister Anutin said he had directed the Justice Ministry to handle the matter strictly under the rules and that anyone involved must face legal responsibility, stressing that such incidents must not happen. The Chinese inmates concerned were urgently transferred to other prisons. A special committee formed by the ministry and corrections department was investigating bribery, improper management and systemic corruption to restore public confidence in the prison system. Compiled by this station