Head of water police suspended in the course of investigations into diesel smuggling

Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) chief Lt Gen Jirabhop Bhuridej signed the order for Preutthipong’s transfer on Monday. Crime Suppression Division deputy commander Pornsak Laorujiralai was appointed to take Preutthipong’s place as acting chief of the river police.

A police source said Jirabhop had transferred the chief of the maritime police to ensure transparency in the investigation. The boats escaped arrest in Sattahip, Chonburi, on June 11 with 330,000 liters of smuggled diesel oil.

Five officers from the Water Police Sub-Division 5, which is responsible for the water police station in Sattahip, were previously transferred to inactive posts at the CIB headquarters, including its commander Intharat Panya.