The clarification was issued yesterday (Nov 17) by Pol Maj Gen Saranu Chamnanrat, Deputy Commander of Region 8 Police and the regional spokesperson, following claims posted on the Facebook pages “Friends of the Police” and “Phra Chan Lai Kratai V5”.
The pages alleged that officers from Deputy Commander down to Inspector were being pressured to “pay to stay” or pay for new placements, with one post claiming that “anyone who wants to remain in their position must offer a rental price”.
The online claims quickly triggered public concern as they coincided with the nationwide transfer and appointment process for officers from Deputy Commander to Inspector, scheduled to be finalised by Nov 28 and to take effect on Dec 1.
Pol Maj Gen Saranu confirmed that Pol Lt Gen Sittichai Lokanpai, Commander of Provincial Police Region 8, and his deputy commanders were urgently summoned to Royal Thai Police Headquarters in Bangkok yesterday for a preliminary fact-finding meeting chaired by National Police Chief Pol Gen Kittirat Phanphet.
“At the meeting, the Commander of Region 8 and the Deputy Commanders clearly confirmed that the reports were inaccurate,” Pol Maj Gen Saranu said. He added that Pol Gen Kittirat had reiterated that all appointments must be handled fairly and in strict compliance with the National Police Act 2022 and the 2024 regulations of the National Police Commission, with zero tolerance for bribery or influence-buying.
“He has emphasised that no interest-based or position-buying activities will take place. If credible evidence of wrongdoing is found, decisive action will be taken without exception,” the spokesperson said.
Region 8 officials stressed that the appointment process is overseen by committees at every level, supported by documented evidence for each candidate. All subordinate units have been instructed to strictly adhere to the law and to the Royal Thai Police Office’s guidelines for the 2025 transfer cycle.
Pol Lt Gen Sittichai “firmly denies” claims that payments of “8 kilograms of money” – slang for large sums of cash – were being demanded for senior positions, Pol Maj Gen Saranu added. “Such allegations are untrue. Transfers are ordered by the National Police Chief and are based on qualifications, suitability and legal regulation.”
Ironically, members of the public who have concrete information about attempted extortion or sale of police positions were urged to report it directly to Region 8 Police headquarters on Thepkasattri Rd in Mai Khao, or by calling 096-3382484 or 076-338380.
The controversy has also drawn political attention. Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee posted a strongly worded public message stressing that senior police must act solely in the public interest.
“We want police leaders who are dedicated to the people, not positions used as tools for power or business gain,” he wrote. “Region 8 is an important area of the country, and the people deserve the best service. The public is watching closely.”
He added that he would work alongside the public to ensure that police administration remains transparent, fair and accountable.
Region 8 Police said they remain committed to ensuring a clean and lawful transfer process and will cooperate fully with any further inquiries ordered by national police leadership.