Thai police have been officially banned from collecting monthly fees associated with red checkpoint boxes, following an urgent directive aimed at eliminating corruption within the force. The directive, issued by Deputy Commander Phumithat Khositwanichpong on behalf of the Nonthaburi Provincial Police Commander, reinforces existing prohibitions outlined in a 2005 regulation.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) recently uncovered that police officers responsible for managing these checkpoint boxes were collecting fees, constituting severe disciplinary and criminal violations. The NACC deemed this exploitation of official positions as serious misconduct, involving corruption and abuse of power.
Key Details of the Directive:
- Date Issued: November 27, 2024.
- Recipients: Provincial police commanders and all police station heads.
- Purpose: To prohibit fee collection related to red checkpoint boxes and ensure strict compliance.
Implications for Police Ethics and Accountability
The red checkpoint boxes, typically used to monitor traffic and maintain public safety, have become a symbol of corruption due to their misuse for financial gain. The directive emphasizes ethical conduct and aims to restore the credibility of law enforcement institutions.
Steps to Enforce Compliance
- Police stations must inform all officers of the ban on fee collection.
- Regular monitoring and enforcement mechanisms will be implemented.
- Officers found violating the directive will face disciplinary and legal consequences.
Deputy Commander Phumithat Khositwanichpong stated, “Upholding ethical standards is crucial to maintaining public trust. Exploiting official duties for personal benefit not only undermines the integrity of the force but also violates fundamental principles of law enforcement.”
Broader Anti-Corruption Measures
This initiative is part of a larger effort to promote transparency and accountability within Thailand’s police force. By strictly prohibiting fee collection for checkpoint boxes, the leadership seeks to deter unethical practices and reinforce public confidence in the system.
The directive underscores a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption, signaling a significant step toward police reform and ethical governance.
