The Probation Department yesterday defended its decision to visit the home of Somchai Khunpleum instead of requiring him to report regularly to probation authorities following his early release from prison.
Somchai, better known as Kamnan Poh or the "Godfather of Chon Buri", has for decades ranked as one of the most influential figures on the eastern seaboard. But despite his successes in business and politics, he is also notorious for his links to organised crime.
Somchai was sentenced to 25 years in prison in 2012 for ordering a contract killing on a politicial rival. However, he was released on probation last year due to illness and his advanced age.
"Probation authorities are duty-bound to visit him to see for themselves if he really is ill … this is by no means a privilege," said Prasarn Mahaleetrakul, director-general of the department.
His comment came after the cabinet on Tuesday appointed Somchai's two sons to high-profile political positions. Both men ran under the banner of the Pheu Thai Party in 2010 and won. Sonthaya, a former tourism and sports minister, was named an adviser on political affairs to the prime minister while Somchai's other son Itthiphol, a former Pattaya mayor, was made assistant to the new tourism and sports minister.
According to Mr Prasarn, Somchai, 80, has been put on probation under a programme that grants ageing inmates who are in ill health an early release from prison. His probation is due to end in 2024. Somchai has been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, meaning the disease has spread to other parts of the body and is likely to be terminal.
Previously, Somchai's daughter saw probation officers on his behalf and said her father required an oxygen mask, which made it difficult for him to travel, Mr Prasarn said. If this was the case, he must submit a medical certificate as proof, the Corrections Department said.
Somchai's sons Itthiphol and Sonthaya were recruited earlier this week as political operatives as part of the government campaign to ensure that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha remains in office after an election.
