B1-billion money trail linked to 2021 exam fraud

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has widened its probe into civil service examination fraud, unearthing a 1 billion baht money trail connected to a 2021 local exam scandal in Pattaya. An inquiry team is now scrutinizing alleged irregularities, with NACC secretary-general Surapong Intharathaworn revealing links between suspects from the current scandal and the earlier case.

Financial records show cash flows exceeding 1 billion baht, tied to the 2021 local government recruitment exam fraud, prompting the NACC board to retrieve previously referred case files. The Pattaya investigation targeted a subcommittee on municipal staff recruitment, provincial administrative officials, and specific Pattaya City employees appointed unlawfully to executive positions in 2021.

The NACC disclosed that the same group of suspects and network structures were involved in both 2021 and 2026 cases. Details on implicated individuals, including politicians or high-ranking officials, remain undisclosed as they are part of the case file. The Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) will assist in tracing financial transactions, with the investigation progressing swiftly.

NACC officials dismissed claims of political interference, emphasizing the anti-graft agency's independence. Despite concerns about delays, NACC secretary-general Surapong assured that the commission could manage timelines and reach conclusions within six months. Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liangprasit ordered local authorities to complete investigations into suspected fraud in local government examinations by the end of the month, with guidance and forms provided for reviewing 5,925 people flagged in connection with exam irregularities.