PACC targets 189 in state welfare cases

The Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) is expected to launch an inquiry into 189 people for their alleged involvement in irregularities in three state projects.

The three programmes under question are the welfare project for the underprivileged and HIV patients, the self-help community project, and the village cooperative project, according to PACC member, Pol Gen Jarumporn Suramanee.

Of the 189 suspects to face an inquiry, 43 are believed to be directors and the remaining two are state officials and temporary staffers.

Among the 43 directors, 41 work at welfare centres for the underprivileged and HIV patients while the other two are involved with the self-help community scheme and the village cooperative project, he said.

The PACC stated that it had agreed to look at a fact-finding probe about irregularities in the provinces of Yala, Phatthalung, Loei, Mukdahan, Sakol Nakhon, Maha Sarakhan, Roi Et and Chon Buri. If the agency finds the report has substance, an official inquiry will be launched.

PACC investigators are still gathering evidence about the alleged irregularities.

Pol Gen Jarumporn promised fair treatment, insisting that PACC investigators will be questioned about their findings.

The scandal involving the welfare centres for the destitute erupted in Khon Kaen early this year when Panida Yotpanya, a 22-year-old intern filed a complaint that she was ordered to fill in forms and sign receipts on behalf of 2,000 villagers worth a total of 6.9 million baht.

The case sparked a large-scale investigation into the welfare projects. Khon Kaen welfare director Phuangphayom Chitkhom was the first to face the axe when he was dismissed from the civil service in March.

The PACC is responsible for pursuing criminal lawsuits against those implicated in irregularities.

PACC secretary-general Kornthip Daroj said the investigation into the spending irregularities by the welfare centres for the underprivileged is close to completion.

According to Mr Kornthip, the authorities suspect that some items may have been purchased at an inflated price.