Thailand’s Defence Minister has ordered the set up of a committee to investigate cases of alleged assault against privates by senior army officers in northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai Province.
The calls for an investigation come after more than 10 army privates at the Adisorn Military Camp in Chiang Mai province were force to stand naked in the rain for about six hours, during which they were beaten and kicked by senior officers.
A family member of one of the army privates complained to Sai Mai Tong Rod’s Facebook page about an assault in the 25th Cavalry Battalion of the 4th Cavalry Regiment, King’s Guard, in Chiang Mai on Saturday.
According to her statement, more than 10 privates were called out in the middle of the night by their superiors – a sergeant major first class and a corporal – who appeared drunk.
The privates were allegedly ordered to stand naked in the rain for about six hours, during which they were beaten, kicked.
Defence Minister Mr. Sutin Klungsang on Sunday told a press briefing that the ministry and the army is against excessive and inappropriate punishment towards any members of the armed forces.
He said he would be meeting with Army Chief Gen. Charoenchai Hinthao with regards to the allegations and seek solutions for broader issues within the army on Today.
He also said he would urge Gen. Charoenchai to conduct commander-level meetings nationwide to ensure ministry policies are followed.
Mr. Sutin said the Defence Ministry would also form a committee to investigate the allegations to ensure fairness and prevent public doubt.
He said Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been advise of the matter and that from now on, if there are cases of mistreatment or excessive punishment towards army soldiers, there will be a central investigation committee setup to ensure transparency and justice.
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Geoff Thomas is an award winning journalist known for his sharp insights and no-nonsense reporting style. Over the years he has worked for Reuters and the Canadian Press covering everything from political scandals to human interest stories. He brings a clear and direct approach to his work.
