Nonthaburi, Thailand – A high-ranking NACC official is at the center of a fatal traffic accident investigation, with allegations of drunk driving and fleeing the scene.
An investigation into a fatal traffic accident has placed a senior official from the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Jarong Kraemoh, in the spotlight. He is accused of crashing his pickup truck into a delivery driver and subsequently leaving the scene. The victim’s family is calling for fair prosecution, while criticism mounts over the accused official’s internal reassignment.
Tod auf der Bang Rak Noi Überführung
According to investigators, Jarong Kraemoh’s pickup truck collided with the motorcycle of Sornnarin Nakongsi on the Bang Rak Noi Bridge on the night of May 27. The 43-year-old victim sustained severe injuries and died at the scene.
Jarong initially failed to stop but was apprehended shortly after due to a flat tire. Police arrested him and recorded a blood alcohol level of 189 mg%. He was released on bail and faces three charges: driving under the influence of alcohol causing death, negligent homicide, and hit-and-run.
Geständnis zur Alkoholfahrt, Streit um Fahrerwechsel
Authorities reported that Jarong admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol but denied accusations of fleeing the scene and allowing a companion to take the blame. He apologized to the victim’s family and pledged to provide compensation.
Police also found that a friend of the accused had attempted to falsely claim responsibility for driving. Conflicting statements and video evidence exist regarding this matter, which the victim’s family described as inconsistent with the accused’s public statements.
Familie fordert höhere Entschädigung und faire Verfahren
On the morning of May 30, Wiyada and Assawathep Nakongsi, along with the deceased’s two children, visited the Bang Si Mueang Police Station to follow the investigation’s progress and provide further statements. The family is demanding an honest and equitable prosecution.
Wiyada stated that Jarong had provided 50,000 Baht for funeral expenses. A further compensation of an initial 500,000 Baht was proposed for negotiation after the funeral, which the family deems insufficient. They fear unequal treatment due to the suspect’s senior official status.
Schlag im Tempel: Täter entschuldigt sich
After Jarong visited Wat Thung Khru temple on the evening of May 29 to seek forgiveness, a friend of the deceased allegedly struck him, according to witness accounts. The assailant, Thanat Bunmak, appeared at the Thung Khru Police Station on May 30 at 1:00 PM with a lawyer and apologized for his actions.
The police have not pressed charges against Thanat as the victim has not filed a complaint. Reportedly, Jarong received medical attention for visible injuries to his face and arm. His wife and sister attended the second night of mourning at the temple as representatives.
Versetzung bei der NACC löst Empörung aus
By order number 455/2569 dated May 29, the NACC reassigned Jarong to a new position as Director of the Office of Special Investigations. This reassignment would increase his monthly allowance from 18,000 to 40,000 Baht, according to the source. Critics view this as a de facto promotion.
Former Member of Parliament Watchara Phetthong is calling for the order to be revoked, the accused to be suspended, and for an investigative committee and disciplinary proceedings to be initiated. He lamented a violation of public sentiment and demanded that Jarong be held to the same standards as other officials.
Ermittlungen und offene Fragen
Police are continuing their investigation into both the fatal accident and the assault at the temple. The family is simultaneously negotiating compensation and demanding transparent handling of the case by the authorities.
Current status: Jarong has been charged with multiple offenses and released on bail, Thanat has apologized, and the NACC reassignment remains contentious as investigations proceed.