Defense Ministry Files Complaint Over Misleading Social Media Posts
The Defense Ministry filed a formal complaint against a Facebook page spreading false claims about the ministry's alleged financial ties to Cambodia, with investigators now examining whether the posts violate Thailand's Computer Crime Act.
On July 15, 2025, at the Cyber Crime Police Division headquarters in Muang Thonburi, Songkan Ajchariyadej, a former justice reform commissioner and legal advisor authorized by Defense Minister Adulyadej Buntharm, filed a formal complaint with cyber crime investigators. The complaint targets a Facebook page called "Phee Saep Sanan Phatoep," which has allegedly spread images, videos, and text containing false or distorted information about the Defense Ministry, including claims that the ministry has financial interests in Cambodia and has therefore refused to cut ties with the Cambodian government.
Songkan stated that the false information has caused widespread public confusion, with approximately 5,700 comments criticizing the Defense Minister and nearly 300,000 views. He emphasized that the posts have damaged the ministry's reputation and compromised national security. Evidence and screenshots have been collected and submitted to the Cyber Crime Police Division for prosecution and page removal.
Deputy Commander Chatchaphan Khlaikhlueang confirmed receipt of the complaint and stated that the Cyber Crime Police Division 1, which covers Bangkok, will investigate whether the posts violate Section 14(2) of the Computer Crime Act, which prohibits uploading false or distorted information that may harm national security, public safety, economic stability, or cause public panic. Investigators will examine the page in detail and determine whether the account holder is a real person or using a fake account. If the perpetrator is identified, legal action will be pursued; if the account is fake, Meta will be contacted for user information to track down the offender before the page is shut down.
Commander Sirivatth Deepho added that preliminary findings indicate the content consists of live streams or videos making direct allegations against the Defense Ministry. Investigators have been assigned to determine whether the content constitutes false information and whether it impacts national security. If both elements are established, the case will fall under the Computer Crime Act.
