Thailand cops over Bt630 billion in damages from corruption

BANGKOK, September 6 (TNA) - Thailand has suffered severely from 10 cases of corruption at the national level worth more than 630 billion baht, said Pramon Sutheewong, chairman of the Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand. Mr. Pramon’s remarks were made Sunday which marked the National Anti-Corruption Day at a Bangkok hotel. This year’s event, organised for the fifth time, was organised under the concept of ‘Active Citizen’ and aimed at making all Thais aware of dangers from corruption. More than 3,000 people took part and participants were allowed to exchange ideas on the platform as well as suggest ways to fight against corruption. Also, an exhibition of ten all-time notorious corruption scandals in the country were open to public in a first-ever showcase, including the rice-pledging scheme. Prime Minister Gen. Prayut Chan-ocha said while presiding over the opening ceremony that he was glad to display his determination to fight against corruption which had impacted national economy and society. The problems had always involved three main groups, including government, private and public sectors, said Gen. Prayut, adding that the country would need cooperation from all sectors to suppress the wrongdoing. Everybody should live on self-sufficiency, a philosophy initiated by His Majesty the King, in order to create happiness in the society, Gen. Prayut added. (TNA)