Army warns against ‘traps’ in drafting

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has urged conscripts not to fall for traps in which they are offered an exemption from military service during the drafting process which is due to kick off next month.

RTA deputy spokeswoman Sirichan Ngathong said yesterday the Sor Dor 43 papers given to conscripts who gain an exemption must be signed by the head of the supervision panel in each conscription area on the day the young men report for the drafting process.

Papers issued by anyone else would be considered fake, Col Sirichan added.

Sor Dor 43 papers are documents that identify their holders as being exempted from military service after having undergone the conscription process through drawing lots.

Col Sirichan urged conscripts to avoid falling into traps set by deceivers who claim they can help them either ensure they enter the military service, or be exempted.

The army will get tough on the military drafting process this year, she noted.

The RTA has appointed a total of 153 panels in 928 districts of 77 provinces to screen conscripts to ensure transparency and prevent cheating, she said.

The panels will oversee the conscription, which is set to take place nationwide between April 1-12, Col Sirichan said.

She said this year, a total of 103,097 conscripts will undergo the drafting process but only 76,953 conscripts are required by the armed forces.

Col Sirichan urged conscripts to strictly follow the drafting rules that will be applied at local conscription areas nationwide.

She also urged conscripts to register with authorities according to the time set for the drafting and bring along necessary documents.

Documents required for registration include an ID card, Sor Dor 9, Sor Dor 35, educational certificates and a medical certificate, she said.

A Sor Dor 9 notice informs a man that he is on the reserve list and must report and confirm his identity. A Sor Dor 35 is an appointment slip for a conscription draw.

Those who want to postpone their service as they are busy with studies or work must send someone to report on their behalf, Col Sirichan said.