Big Joke crackdown on corruption: Four transferred amid bribes at immigration scandal

New Immigration chief Maj-Gen Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn has ordered the immediate transfer of four policemen after claims that his men were taking bribes came from China.

The officers – that include one of very senior rank – will do clerical duties while an investigation into their activities takes place.

It has been suggested that the officers took 200 baht per person on top of 2,000 baht visas to enter Thailand.

The Maj-Gen told TNA that he accepts that the corruption has been going on for a long time.

And despite the “No Tips” signs that have gone up nationwide it is still happening, he said.

“We need to get this sorted out,” he said, “and clear up the immigration police and the damage such practices are causing to Thailand’s image”.

One of those transferred to clerical duties is believed to carry the rank of superintendent or chief of police.

Maj-Gen Surachate moved to immigration on Monday of last week after being deputy at the Tourist Police Bureau.

Thai Visa / TNA

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