Local Government Agencies Face Most Corruption Complaints; NACC Region 1 Reports 'Spec-Locking' and Budget-Splitting Under 500,000 Baht as Top Violations
Local government agencies received the most corruption complaints in NACC Region 1, with specification-locking and budget-splitting under 500,000 baht identified as the top procurement violations, causing billions in identified damages.
On May 21, 2025, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) held its annual media relations event at Lopburi Inn Resort in Muang District, Lopburi Province. NACC Secretary-General Surapong Inthathawaon led discussions with representatives from government agencies in Lopburi and Saraburi provinces on measures to monitor public procurement.
NACC Region 1 Deputy Secretary-General Wirawat Charoenecham reported that the region has received 666 complaints to date, with most alleging civil service misconduct under Section 157 of the Criminal Code. Local government organizations (LGOs) face the most complaints due to their large workforce presence.
Among procurement-related corruption complaints, the top five violation types are: (1) specification-locking, (2) budget-splitting under 500,000 baht, (3) bid-rigging, (4) use of nominees, and (5) false work acceptance. Damages identified include 2.305 billion baht in real estate, 700 million baht in infrastructure, 497 million baht in subsidies, and 450 million baht in equipment and vehicles.
Wirawat noted that while corruption persists and intensifies, complainants often fear retaliation despite witness protection measures. Subordinates remain fearful of superiors, perpetuating fraud.
State Auditor Suthee Suntraanurak discussed procurement inspection findings, revealing patterns such as bid-rigging between officials and contractors, false work inspections (such as incomplete road construction), unauthorized design changes, and underutilization of completed projects. The NACC is implementing real-time audits and using drones to inspect hard-to-reach or dangerous areas.
Suthee emphasized the need for comprehensive anti-corruption efforts supported by clear databases to strengthen preventive measures and ensure procurement processes meet all objectives.
