Investigation reveals Narathiwat police protected weapon and drug suspects

An investigation into the southern Narathiwat provincial police department has revealed its police chief and subordinates protected weapon and drug suspects.

According to the Bangkok Post, the commander of police, Waesamae Salae, and his subordinates are accused of taking bribes in exchange for helping drug and weapon suspects. The national police chief, Surachate Hakparn announced the news yesterday.

Surachate says he filed a criminal and disciplinary action with the Anti-Corruption Divison after prominent lawyer, Atchariya Ruangrattanapong, complained. Atchariya is a well-known campaigner for crime victims.

He says Chayanont Nithor, 25, a murder suspect was helped by corrupt police. Atchariya says a decision was made not to prosecute Chayanont in connection with the murder of a policeman, Thanakrit Ruekdee.

Thanakrit was a 23 year old police officer who was on patrol in Sungai…