The Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration announced that two district chiefs have been sent back to Phuket. However, the provincial secretary did not cooperate with questioning and was instead asked to submit a written explanation. The 30-day period concludes on 24 June 2026, and those found not at fault will be reinstated to their original positions.
At 11:20 a.m. on 22 June 2026 at the Government House, Mr. Naruecha Kosasivilai, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, spoke about the progress in investigating Mr. Rungrueng Thimabut, Phuket's provincial secretary. He stated that since 24 May, the provincial secretary, district chiefs, and provincial prevention officials were ordered to report to the Department of Provincial Administration. This 30-day period will end on 24 June 2026. So far, the district chiefs of Mueang Phuket and Kathu have completed their testimonies and no serious disciplinary offenses have been found. They have been returned to their duties in Phuket. For the other three officials, the provincial secretary has been uncooperative in questioning, having taken two separate 10-day leaves upon arrival. Therefore, the department is requiring a written explanation, which is currently under review. Once all aspects are considered, a conclusion on this matter will be reached.
When asked whether other evidence had been found, such as financial trails, Mr. Naruecha responded that this remains under the collection by administrative officers and is still part of ongoing case proceedings. He expressed reluctance to disclose details at this stage.
Asked if the investigation period would be extended, given only two days remain, Mr. Naruecha stated that if the investigation concludes with sufficient grounds to take further action, appropriate steps will follow. Conversely, if no wrongdoing is found, the officials will be entitled to return to their previous positions.
Mr. Naruecha also updated on the investigation following the Department of Provincial Administration’s inspection of a nightlife venue in Nakhon Pathom Province on 20 June 2026, under the operation named 'Check-in The Airport.' The venue was found to allow drug use and admitted patrons under 20 years old. The district chief and relevant officials have been ordered to report to central offices to facilitate investigation. Illegal items such as drugs, e-cigarettes, and underage patrons were discovered. The authority to close the venue lies with the Governor of Nakhon Pathom Province. Initially, a closure period of five years is being considered.
Mr. Naruecha remarked that permitting underage individuals to enter venues and allowing drug use constitutes neglect. A meeting has been held to evaluate these offenses, including money laundering allegations. Should further violations be found, especially involving government officials such as administrative officers, strict action will be taken. Money laundering cases will be referred to the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) for investigation. Previously, such nightlife-related offenses were handled by general police investigators, but new measures will align with the Prime Minister’s policy to combat corruption.
When asked if the venue had a valid operating license, Mr. Naruecha confirmed that there was no license for the establishment.
In response to whether local influential figures in Nakhon Pathom Province were involved, Mr. Naruecha said the investigation is ongoing. The authorities will also intensify inspections of nightlife venues nationwide moving forward.