Sting Operation Leads to Arrest
The mayor of Muang Bang Kaew municipality in Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan province, Nathapong Taengsuwan, has been apprehended on charges of demanding and accepting a bribe. The arrest occurred during a sting operation at his office on Bua Nakarin Road in tambon Bang Kaew.
The Anti-Corruption Division (ACD) and the Office of the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) collaborated to carry out the operation.
Complaint from Contractor Triggers Investigation
Pol Maj Gen Jaroonkiat Pankaew, the ACD commander, reported that the complaint sparking the investigation came from a limited partnership company. The company alleged that Mayor Nathapong demanded a bribe in exchange for being contracted to execute a 13-million-baht LCD screen project.
According to the complaint, the bribe totaled 25% of the project cost, to be paid in two portions. The first payment was scheduled for Thursday, with the second payment due upon completion of the project.
Events Leading to the Arrest
As the sting unfolded, a representative from the accusing company handed over an envelope containing 1.56 million baht in cash to Mayor Nathapong at his office. Upon receiving the envelope, Nathapong quickly left his office, sensing that something was amiss. He proceeded to dispose of the envelope in the car park before authorities arrived to arrest him.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Mayor Nathapong has been charged with dishonestly demanding and accepting a bribe, which he denies. He has been handed over to the ACD for further legal proceedings.
Impact on the LCD Screen Project
The future of the 13-million-baht LCD screen project remains uncertain as the case unfolds and pending the outcome of legal processes.
