The police spokesperson confirmed that the officer's unit has been ordered to consider suspending the colonel after evidence showed he belonged to a different unit but was involved in the extortion gang linked to Achariya, who is now wanted. He also reaffirmed that the police chief's policy is to promote officers who perform well and to strictly punish those who commit wrongdoing.
On 22 April 2026, Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwpan, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Police, revealed details about the case involving Achariya Ruangrattanapong, chairman of the Crime Victims Assistance Club, and six accomplices arrested on charges of 'joint extortion.' The victim, an Immigration Police commander, filed a complaint stating he was threatened to pay 2.5 million baht to prevent live-streamed attacks criticizing operations related to the illicit transfer of Chinese detainees from Immigration detention rooms.
Initial reports indicate the arrest of those involved occurred yesterday. Currently, Police General Kittirat Phanphet, National Police Chief, has ordered the respective units to have commanders examine the conduct of the police officer under arrest. Evidence clearly shows the officer is assigned to the southern region but appeared in the capital area and was involved in the gang, leading to an arrest warrant. If found guilty, the National Police has clear regulations and swift disciplinary procedures. The accused must report to their unit regarding the criminal case, which will then be reported to the National Police Headquarters for administrative consideration. This process is expected to conclude within five days.
He confirmed that the National Police Chief’s policy is to reward and promote officers who act properly and do good, but to take strict action without leniency against those who commit crimes and have credible evidence against them.
Police Lieutenant General Trairong also emphasized, “Regarding police discipline, there are clear legal regulations. Ultimately, if guilt is established, an order to suspend the officer pending investigation can be issued. The public can be assured that although there have been recent incidents involving police harming citizens or participating in extortion among officers, these actions are individual and do not reflect the organization. The Royal Thai Police has never protected wrongdoers.”
When asked about the unusually quiet arrest of Achariya and his accomplices, and their discreet transfer for court detention, and whether the police were suppressing the news or concerned about counter-lawsuits, Police Lieutenant General Trairong said, “Regarding counter-lawsuits, it is the right of defendants in criminal cases to file complaints against arresting officers or investigators. This is not something to fear as it happens in many cases. In this case, the court approved arrest warrants for all six suspects after thorough evidence review and cross-agency verification within the justice process.”