BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Department of Corrections has rejected allegations of preferential “VIP” treatment for Chinese inmates held at Bangkok Remand Prison, following a complaint raised by the National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRC) regarding possible discrimination and human rights violations.
In a statement issued on May 3, the department said it is actively pursuing disciplinary and criminal proceedings against officials involved in corruption linked to prisoner management and access privileges.
The Ministry of Justice previously ordered the suspension of a prison commander and a personal secretary after an investigation uncovered serious misconduct, including allegations of soliciting bribes in exchange for avoiding disciplinary and legal action against inmates found in possession of mobile phones inside prison facilities.
Further investigations revealed that some officials were also accused of facilitating improper access for lawyers and granting unauthorized privileges to certain detainees in exchange for financial benefits.
The department confirmed that multiple officials have been temporarily removed from their posts pending disciplinary hearings, with cases now being escalated to Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and subsequently forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for prosecution.
Authorities emphasized that all actions are being carried out strictly based on evidence and civil service regulations, without interference or protection for any offenders.
The Department of Corrections reiterated that all inmates, regardless of nationality, are subject to the same legal and correctional standards. It also stressed that prison operations nationwide must comply with the Correctional Act B.E. 2560 (2017), related regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures to ensure fairness, transparency, and respect for human dignity.
