The Department of Corrections (DoC) came under fire yesterday over the transfer of a key suspect in the scandal-hit Stark Corporation to the Police General Hospital (PGH), as victims of the financial misconduct case believe he was given unfair privileges.
Dozens of investors affected by the fraud case petitioned Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong, demanding the truth after learning that Vonnarat Tangkaravakoon, Stark's largest shareholder, was being treated at the PGH.
Mr Vonnarat was one of seven suspects accused of forgery, fraud, embezzlement and money laundering under the Securities and Exchange Act. The alleged misconduct affected 4,704 shareholders and caused damages estimated at 14.7 billion baht.
He was sent to Bangkok Remand Prison on Feb 12 after his bail request was denied. The victims were furious upon hearing that he could be staying in a premium ward at the PGH after he was transferred out of the Corrections Hospital.
Dr Pongpak Areeyapinant, acting director of the Corrections Hospital, told a press conference that after a week in detention, Mr Vonnarat suffered from swollen testicles and was prescribed antibiotics to treat suspected infections.
An examination confirmed there was a 5cm lump that was likely malignant. He was sent on April 23 to the PGH and had surgery there on May 1.
The atmosphere at the presser was tense as the victims demanded to know who paid his medical bills.