In a recent interview, Mr. Sutthipong Boonniti, Press Secretary of the State Audit Office of Thailand (SAO), provided insights into the audit of the procurement of fitness equipment by the Pathum Thani Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO) for the years 2015 and 2016. The audit revealed that the PAO purchased fitness equipment at prices up to three times higher than market rates, leading to a suspected overpayment of 44 million baht.

Mr. Sutthipong explained that the SAO's findings were based on a detailed comparison of prices paid by other local government units in the province for similar equipment. This significant discrepancy prompted the SAO to report the matter to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) in 2019.

The NACC is currently investigating the case, and legal proceedings have been initiated. The former PAO chief and other involved officials are being sued for 40 million baht in civil damages. Additionally, an administrative case is ongoing, and disciplinary actions are being taken against the officials, with potential penalties ranging from salary reductions to termination.

Mr. Sutthipong emphasized the SAO's commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in public procurement processes, underscoring the importance of adhering to market rates and ethical standards in public service.

Summarized by
Dr. Sutthi Suntharanurak
Deputy of Press Secretary