Police Confirm Charges Against Uniformed Impostor Despite Denials

On July 16, 2025, Police Commissioner Siam Bunyasorn disclosed details of the case against former second lieutenant Chit Phong Katphong, also known as 'Muat Nut,' who has surrendered to investigators and been temporarily released on bail due to his voluntary surrender. The suspect wore military-style clothing and positioned himself alongside Prime Minister Anuthín Charnvirakul and the Interior Minister during an on-site inspection of a brewery fire at Lat Prao. During the investigation, the suspect denied all allegations and requested to submit a written statement at a later date. Investigators formally charged him with three primary offences: impersonating and acting as a government official without lawful authority, possessing and operating an unlicensed radio communication device, and disseminating false information that caused public panic. Body armor and a helmet found during the investigation are undergoing further forensic examination. Commissioner Siam stated that although the suspect denied the radio charge, investigators have gathered substantial physical evidence, including video clips and transcripts from his press conference appearance with Chomphalang. The suspect previously admitted to purchasing the radio from Khlong Thom and installing it in the uniform, and police will proceed with prosecution on all three charges as planned. A criminal record check revealed the suspect has no prior convictions and no previous history of military uniform violations. His only prior records are as a victim or plaintiff in defamation cases involving images posted online at Bang Yi Khan and Udom Suk police stations, as well as a traffic accident case. Investigators will continue proceedings according to legal protocols and update on progress.