Premchai acknowledges bribery charge

BANGKOK. March 20 (TNA) - Construction tycoon Premchai Karnasuta and his driver acknowledge additional charge of bribery, relating to the poaching case in a wildlife sanctuary in Kanchanaburi. Mr Premchai, President of Italian-Thai Development Plc and his driver, Yong Dodkrua reported to Counter Corruption Division (CCD) police today. They have been questioned after they were accused for an attempt to bribe officials when they were arrested for hunting in a prohibited area at Thung Yai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary on February 4. Thungyai sanctuary chief, Wichian Chinnawong provided a sound clip, recording a conversation, in which Mr Premchai allegedly offer officials a bribe in exchange for his release. Pol Maj General Kamol Rienracha, chief of the Counter Corruption Division said that there is substantial evidence to back up the charges including witnesses’ accounts. However, he cannot confirm the investigation will be finished at the end of this month but the police will do their best. Mr Premchai and his three companions have already been charged on several counts in relation to illegal wildlife hunting. (TNA)