Seven suspects released on bail amid ongoing investigation but further arrests anticipated
Authorities are intensifying their investigation into embezzlement claims involving a significant medication overprescribing scheme at a hospital in Bangkok, where drugs valued at approximately 60 million baht were alleged to be resold illegally.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced on Thursday that a comprehensive review of the case is underway, reassuring that external influences will not disrupt the investigative process.
He expressed gratitude to the opposition for its vigilance regarding the investigation, detailing that the government has been working closely with relevant anti-corruption agencies.
Phumtham affirmed that all actions taken adhered to legal protocols, explaining that the time taken to gather evidence was vital to prevent any manipulation or cover-up.
On Wednesday, authorities conducted a raid across 17 locations, arresting eight individuals implicated in the alleged embezzlement scheme involving falsified prescriptions and drug dispensing.
Among those detained is an individual alleged to have facilitated patients in a province to receive fraudulent treatments from a hospital doctor, who allegedly falsified illnesses and prescriptions.
The medicines were reportedly stored at a location in Bangkok before being illegally distributed to various pharmacies across the region.
During investigations, it was revealed that the physician was responsible for nearly 29% of all drug orders filled at the hospital in the last seven years, contributing to financial losses estimated at 60 million baht.
The other suspects include various individuals aged 49 to 56, some of whom have partially admitted their roles, believing that the drugs were acquired legally.
Currently, all suspects have been released on bail, except one who remains in custody pending bail arrangements.
Investigators anticipate identifying additional suspects and are preparing for further arrests as they collaborate with financial oversight departments to investigate unusual expenditures at the hospital.
Authorities have also noted similar fraudulent activities reported in multiple other hospitals, although details remain undisclosed at this time.
