Cash-for-Release Claims Investigated at Checkpoint in Thalang

Thalang –

The Ministry of Interior has moved swiftly to address allegations of misconduct at a checkpoint in Thalang District, Phuket, where officials were accused of demanding money from detainees in exchange for their release.

Deputy Interior Minister Worasis Leangprasert has directed the Department of Provincial Administration and the Phuket Governor to urgently investigate the claims, which surfaced publicly on September 16th, 2026. The allegations involve an operational unit in Thalang said to have solicited bribes from individuals under custody.

Worasis stated that the inquiry must be thorough, covering the incident itself, the personnel involved, and all available evidence. He instructed the Phuket Governor to clarify the facts without delay and to report progress directly to the Ministry of Interior, ensuring close oversight from central authorities.

“The distinction between allegations and facts is crucial. Investigations must be evidence-based and fair to all parties. Once complaints reach the public domain, agencies must act quickly to provide answers and prevent lingering doubts,” Worasis stated.

Local officials in Thalang have already begun reviewing the conduct of the officers named in online reports. A fact-finding committee has been appointed, with results expected to be submitted to the province by September 17th, 2026. The Deputy Minister has ordered that updates be relayed promptly to the Ministry.

Beyond this case, Worasis instructed authorities to expand their review to similar complaints or leads across Phuket, ensuring that no potential misconduct is overlooked.

He said that the ultimate goal is to deliver truth to the public. If wrongdoing is confirmed, disciplinary and legal measures must be enforced regardless of rank. Conversely, if investigations clear the accused, findings must be disclosed to protect their reputation and reinforce public confidence in administrative integrity.

“This matter must be resolved transparently. If violations are proven, decisive action will follow. But everything must rest on facts and evidence, with fairness guaranteed to all sides,” Worasis affirmed.