Investigators intensify probe into auditor-generals of SAO due to damaged building
State Audit Office Building Collapse Investigation Intensifies
The Metropolitan Police Bureau is delving deeper into investigations concerning the State Audit Office (SAO) building collapse in Bangkok's Chatuchak district, implicating both the current and former auditor-generals of the SAO. So far, the authorities have prosecuted 17 individuals, including construction firms, designers, and supervising engineers, in relation to the incident.
A notable figure among the suspects is Premchai Karnasuta, the chairman of Italian-Thai Development, who is allegedly involved in the case. Furthermore, engineers and project supervisors, as well as a China Railway Joint Venture, are also implicated.
The investigation has unearthed multiple violations of construction regulations, including poor building design, inadequate materials, and structural weaknesses resulting from improperly positioned elevator shaft walls. Forensic findings also revealed that the concrete strength did not meet standards, and some steel reinforcement bars did not adhere to specifications. Additionally, a forged signature was discovered on construction documents, indicating deception in the approval process.
As the inquiry continues, the authorities are awaiting reports from an expert committee appointed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and testimony from five additional suspects. Once all evidence has been compiled, they will proceed with legal action against those found guilty.
Concurrently, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has addressed reports regarding the Department of Special Investigation's intention to forward a bid-rigging case connected to three contracts - construction, design, and supervision - to the National Anti-Corruption Commission. The minister clarified that the focus remains on finding the cause of the building collapse, with the scientific and engineering analysis still underway. He also anticipates the investigation's conclusion by June.
In other developments, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration ended the disaster zone status on May 15, facilitating further investigation and reconstruction planning. Rescue operations have concluded, with efforts focused on recovering all victims and clearing debris, expected to finish by the end of May.
The SAO auditor-general remains prepared to accept the findings of the investigation.
- The crime-and-justice sector is scrutinizing the business practices of Premchai Karnasuta, a notable figure in the stock market, as he faces allegations in the SAO building collapse case.
- The general-news outlets report that the health of the economy might be impacted if corruption in political spheres is found to have contributed to the collapse of the State Audit Office building.
- The investigation into the State Audit Office building collapse also includes inquiries into the quality of materials used in the construction market, as forensic findings revealed concrete and steel reinforcement issues.
- The politics surrounding the SAO building collapse investigation are amplified with the revelation of forged signatures on construction documents, suggesting deception in the approval process.
