Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Tuesday ordered the Finance Ministry to look into reports about people pretending to be poor to benefit from the state's welfare scheme intended for low-income earners.
He said he was aware of possible abuses of the system by ineligible applicants and instructed the Finance Ministry, which is responsible for the programme, to investigate.
Gen Prayut's move came as rage boiled over on social media after a woman posted a photo of a welfare card and 500 baht in cash -- the government's New Year giveaway -- despite the fact she was shown wearing a gold necklace and also appeared to own a car.
The premier said her benefits would be recalled if it was proven that she had fraudulently applied for the state handouts.
"It's a matter of honesty. If the authorities investigate and find the holder is not eligible, the card will be revoked," he said.
Gen Prayut also voiced frustration over reports that some cardholders had hired other people to withdraw the money for them, paying them a service fee of 20-30 baht.
He said the cardholders should learn how to withdraw the cash themselves and be spared any unnecessary expenses. They should also be protected from those seeking to exploit such situations, he added.
