Thailand investigates corruption of funds for the poor
The Office of Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) of Thailand said on March 20 that it is investigating the suspected misappropriation of up to 85 percent of a state fund for the poor.
Bangkok (VNA) - The Office of Public SectorAnti-Corruption Commission (PACC) of Thailand said on March 20 that it isinvestigating the suspected misappropriation of up to 85 percent of a statefund for the poor.
PACC has found evidence of irregularities amounting toabout 100 million baht (3.2 million USD) out of the money destined forlow-income people, said its Secretary-General Korntip Daroj.
The Commission has investigated and foundcorruption-related instances and evidence in about 49 out of 76 provinces ofthe country.
Korntip said the fraud over the fund for the poor wasallegedly committed by faking copies of national identification cards. It waslater found that money never reached the intended recipients, he said.
The funds are given directly to those deemed in need ingrants of up to 3,000 baht (100 USD). They are disbursed through the SocialDevelopment and Human Security Ministry. Thai officials have yet to comment.
Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has ordered thedismissal of all those involved in misappropriating funds and called for aninvestigation by the ministry.
Prayuth told reporters that the government had alwaysbeen stringent about corruption.-VNA
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