Crime Suppression Division police have arrested a man and a woman for allegedly demanding bribes from recruitment companies to "facilitate" the renewal of work permits for Myanmar workers.
Arkorn Krailerk, 52, and his alleged accomplice Apinya Meesommon, 62, were arrested at their homes in Pathum Thani and Bangkok respectively on Tuesday, and taken to a police media conference on Wednesday.
CSD commander Akkaradech Pimolsri said police were acting on several complaints lodged by recruitment companies which accused the pair of demanding 250 baht per application for renewal of a work permit for a Myanmar migrant worker.
The suspects claimed the money was for an "administration fee" to facilitate the issuing of the renewed documents and the companies that refused to pay them would find the process was delayed.
Mr Arkorn denied the charge, claiming he and Mrs Apinya had been in the hire of the Myanmar embassy for four years and the 250 baht fee was the embassy's requirement. Pol Maj Gen Akkaradech said police had obtained enough evidence to prosecute the two suspects and were investigating further to identify more people involved.
“We believe there are government officials at several levels, including Myanmar officials, taking part in and witnessing this offence. Further investigations are underway,” the CSD commander said.
Mr Arkorn also faces charges of possessing firearms and ammunition without permission after police found three shotguns, three pistols and 680 rounds of assorted ammunition at his home.
Mr Arkorn said he had a fondness for guns and the seized weapons had nothing to do with the bribe allegation against him.
