Authorities continue to expand the investigation into the 'Mayor Heng' network involved in local official exam corruption. 'Big Turtle' is confident prosecutions will reach high-level executives.
On 28 Aug 2026 GMT+7, at the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Suppression Division (BPP), Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat Pankaew, Deputy Commissioner of the Central Investigation Police, revealed details after arresting and questioning Mr. Prawit Jaruratchakun, known as 'Mayor Heng,' a former Pheu Thai party MP candidate, and Mrs. Nawaporn, a local administrative officer in Sisaket province. He said the suspects cooperated well. Mr. Prawit denied charges but provided useful information aiding the case. Some information helped link to previously arrested suspects. Investigators scheduled the suspects to give further testimony and present evidence again on 8 Sep.
The investigation found the scheme operated systematically with a similar modus operandi. It involved accepting quotas for those wishing to become government officials through influence networks, and such patterns were found across several provinces.
Regarding why suspects were granted bail, the Sisaket case initially had only one complainant with damages of 650,000 baht. By law, denying bail allows only 48 days for case preparation, but granting bail extends this to six months, enabling more thorough evidence collection. Legally, suspects remain innocent until proven guilty and have the right to bail to defend themselves in court.
In-depth investigation revealed over 40 additional complainants at various police stations. In total, more than 100 victims are estimated. Among them, 57 paid money and obtained positions, while over 40 paid but neither got positions nor refunds. These victims stated they handed cash directly to Mr. Heng.
Legally, as this is a corruption case involving government appointments, the main case falls under the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Currently, NACC appointed Pol. Maj. Gen. Prasong Chaliphan, Commander of the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Suppression Division, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Pattanasak Buppasuwan, Commander of the Crime Suppression Division, to join the inquiry team, ensuring rapid coordination.
Victims seeking swift justice may report complaints directly to the Anti-Corruption Division or the Crime Suppression Division. Police will pursue parallel investigations alongside the NACC.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat confirmed that NACC's work will reach the masterminds and firmly believes the case will extend to senior executives. Investigators are also preparing to expand probes to new individuals involved in soliciting benefits, distinct from the group connected to Mr. Pichit Phromnueng, a previously prosecuted suspect. Details remain confidential due to ongoing investigations. For those who secured civil service positions through influence, identities are clear and relevant agencies are proceeding with dismissal or forced resignation. He emphasized there is no political pressure or interference; police act strictly based on evidence.