Deputy Commissioner of Police clarified the controversy over the unfinished staircase ceiling at the new Suthisan Police Station, explaining that certain conditions apply. He compared the situation to a disaster with no one to blame, announced plans for daily fines against contractors, and confirmed that the contract is with the Police Logistics Office and "China Railway." He also admitted feeling surprised.
Social media sparked criticism over photos showing the staircase to the second floor of the new Metropolitan Police Suthisan Station building, which is sealed off with ceiling panels and lights, rendering it unusable.
On 30 March 2026 at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters, Police General Kornchai Klailklung, Deputy Commissioner of Police responsible for administration, addressed the issue and explained the causes of the prolonged construction delay for the replacement building, which has extended over two years.
Police General Kornchai stated the building is not yet officially open. The images of the staircase area being blocked on social media show only temporary ceiling installation, not permanent concrete sealing. This measure was necessary because homeless people had been entering and sleeping there, causing theft. Therefore, the contractor had to secure the area to prevent unauthorized access to the unfinished upper floors.
The Deputy Commissioner also urged those who shared the images to exercise judgment and verify facts thoroughly before posting content that criticizes the Royal Thai Police.
Regarding the incomplete construction, Police General Kornchai explained the main issue is that the electrical system has not yet been connected inside the building. This is because the Ratchadaphisek-Rama 9 road area is undergoing work by the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) to bury power lines underground. As a MEA board member, he is aware that this process is still under preparation of terms of reference (TOR), so they must wait until the underground wiring is completed before connecting electricity to the new Suthisan Police Station.
Concerning the more than two-year delay past the contract deadline, Police General Kornchai said the Police Logistics Office is not at fault. The Royal Thai Police designed all construction plans correctly through their team of engineers and architects.
"I will investigate this matter thoroughly. If the delay is caused by contractor fault, they will face daily fines according to the contract without exception. However, if delays are due to external factors such as electrical connection issues from other agencies or force majeure, these must be considered based on facts. The acceptance committee and engineers will inspect readiness before handing over the project," he said.
When asked who is responsible for the electrical connection issues, Police General Kornchai responded by asking, "Who is to blame for COVID, disasters, or tsunamis?" He emphasized the need to understand exceptions and affirmed that if any faults are found, fines will be imposed and an inspection committee established according to regulations.
When questioned about the appearance of China Railway as part of the joint venture contractor, the Deputy Commissioner admitted he was also surprised to see the company's name. However, he did not know whether China Railway has other projects with the Royal Thai Police. He confirmed that during his two-year tenure, he has consistently pushed for timely project delivery and, as head of administration, closely supervises all projects, even those contracted before his appointment.