Paisit’s exit gets the nod from Justice Ministry
The resignation of Pol Col Paisit Wongmuang, director-general of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), has been approved by the permanent secretary of justice, according to an official source.
The DSI informed the Justice Ministry of Pol Col Paisit’s intention to resign effective April 2 through a letter on March 2. On March 16, Wisit Wisitsoraat, the permanent secretary of justice, approved Pol Col Paisit’s resignation, the source said.
Pol Col Paisit’s fell sick and underwent surgery in January, but his medical team advised him to take time off in order to make a full recovery, the source said.
The Justice Ministry will now ask the cabinet to seek His Majesty the King’s endorsement of the resignation, in line with Section 113 of the Civil Service Act (2008). The outgoing DSI chief started his career in the Royal Thai Police after graduating from the police cadet school. He was appointed directorgeneral five years ago, 16 years after he first transferred to the DSI.
Pol Col Paisit is known for his role in busting a number of ponzi schemes, but he has recently been in the spotlight for his relentless investigation into the forced disappearance and murder of Karen activist Porlajee “Billy” Rakchongcharoen, which four officials are accused of.
During Pol Col Paisit’s time in hospital, Pol Lt Col Korrawat Panprapakorn, an inspector-general of the Justice Ministry, served as acting DSI director-general. He is tipped to take over permanently.