DSI Chief Says He Knows Nothing of MP's Gambling Inquiry
The newly appointed director-general of Thailand's Department of Special Investigation said he had no details about the summons of Bhumjaithai MP Suchada Zang Thangtham and her husband for questioning over an online gambling case, noting he had just taken office. He emphasized that any action would follow established policy and that relevant agencies were already looking into the matter. The chief also declined to comment on whether the investigation would be fair or if it extended to other political parties.
On October 20, 2026, at the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), Pol. Lt. Col. Piyak Raksa-kul, who had just assumed the post of director-general, refused to discuss details regarding the summons of Ms. Suchada Zang Thangtham, the Bhumjaithai Party MP for Chaiyaphum, and her husband, Mr. Thaiyang Zang, for questioning in connection with an online gambling investigation. He said he had just started work that day and was unaware of the specifics, emphasizing that any action would be taken according to policy. When asked whether DSI could proceed without a formal complaint or accusation, he said relevant agencies were already handling the matter and that he needed to review the details first, adding that as a newcomer he would follow established policy. Regarding details of the case, he said he needed to examine them before commenting, as he did not yet know what information existed. He also noted that even if the individuals came to clarify, he would wait to review the file. On whether the couple had links to online gambling, he smiled and said he needed to look into the details, especially financial transaction trails, since it was his first day on the job. When questioned about perceptions that DSI might not treat fairly cases linked to political parties, he said he did not yet know the facts and would investigate first, affirming that the agency follows legal procedures and is committed to fairness for all sides. He also stated he had not seen any evidence linking the case to online gambling, and when asked if investigations were now extending beyond the Move Forward Party to include the Blues Party, he laughed but did not answer.
