Bangkok Remand Prison is at the center of a major scandal as about 20 officials are under investigation for allegedly arranging special privileges for Chinese inmates, including access to prostitutes. The announcement was made by Pol Lt Col Prawut Wongsinin, head of the Department of Corrections, following an inspection at the prison in Chatuchak district alongside Justice Minister Rutthapon Naowarat.
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has been tasked with handling the case. The minister was accompanied by Pol Maj Gen Yutthana Praedam, the DSI director-general, and his deputy Pol Lt Col Anurak Rojnirankit. Pol Lt Col Prawut revealed that he received initial reports of misconduct a month after taking his role on October 1, which were promptly reported to his seniors.
Following nearly three weeks of evidence gathering, investigators confirmed that both senior and junior staff were involved in violating prison regulations. A disturbing finding revealed that Chinese women were entering the prison under the pretense of providing sexual services.
A raid on November 16 uncovered two young women in their twenties inside the prison. One was found alone with a Chinese inmate in a concealed room, while the other was waiting upstairs. The room was secured by two locked doors, making access challenging for authorities. Although both women denied any sexual activity, investigators discovered condoms, lingerie, stained tissues, traces of bodily fluids, tobacco, and alcohol at the scene.
Forensic experts are scheduled to examine the evidence further. Individuals potentially involved have been relocated to prevent further misconduct. Since the two women had returned to China, Thai authorities cannot detain them but are coordinating with Chinese counterparts to take action if criminal involvement is confirmed.
CCTV footage reviewed during the investigation indicated that Chinese women were entering the prison every Sunday, though some recordings had been deleted. Other contraband seized during the raid included mobile phones, lighters, portable air-conditioning units, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has vowed stringent measures against any officials implicated in granting special privileges to inmates. In response to the scandal, the Department of Corrections has transferred several Chinese inmates to more secure facilities. More than 10 others remain in their original ward, with the possibility of additional transfers if further violations are identified.
This case highlights concerns over corruption and misconduct within Thailand’s prison system. Authorities are under pressure to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to regulations, as public trust in correctional institutions hangs in the balance. Investigations continue as both Thai and Chinese authorities work to clarify the involvement of the individuals implicated in this case.
